We all know that sitting for extended periods of time is bad for us. We read everywhere that working in an office or spending hours slumped in front of the TV can be harmful to us and our bodies. But why is this, and what effect does sitting have on your spine?
Inactivity
One of the biggest reasons why sitting for long periods of time is bad for us is that during this time we are inactive. This means that blood flows slower through your body and your muscles burn less fat. The knock-on effect of this is more strain on your heart, putting it at risk,
Similar mechanisms take place that can lead to an increase in insulin production. Not only does that put unnecessary strain on your pancreas but can also lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
What about my posture?
Sitting for extended periods of time can have a dramatic effect on your posture which in turn can affect your spine health and therefore your general wellbeing.
People are made to move. Muscles are meant to be engaged and constantly switched on and off. Sitting for extended periods of time is unnatural.
As your core will not be engaged you will be loading your weight directly through the spine. This is worsened if you are not sat properly or using an orthopaedic chair. This in turn puts unnecessary strain and wear on the discs and vertebra.
During periods of sitting your legs are simply not being used. This can lead to proportionally weaker legs and glutes. This muscular imbalance can lead to a host of long term issues. Also, as your legs are usually as an angle of 110 degrees to your body your hip flexors can shorten and tighten. This will then lead to an exaggerated lordotic curve when you stand, leading to poor movement patterns and improper engagement of the core muscles opening the door for disc herniations.
Your upper back is also at risk. The majority of people look down at their computers while they work. This can lead to an exaggerated kyphotic curve in the lumbar section of the spine which, like the exaggerated lordotic curve, comes with a range of issues that can travel through the body.
What can you do?
One of the best remedies for sitting for long periods of time is simple activity. Try and exercise for 60 minutes, three times a week. This will work your heart and strengthen your limbs to support your posture.
If you are experiencing back pain, in either the upper or lower back, neck pain or even pain in your hips then sitting at your desk may be the cause.
When you visit the team here at Morley Chiropractic clinic we will assess your posture as well as your movement patterns and tailor our services and remedies according to what we think will work best for you.
Leeds, Wakefield and Bradford are all large city’s that have a huge number of office workers. We are well practiced with recognising and treating the issues caused by sitting for long periods of time.
To book into our clinic simply call us on 0113 2383693 or contact us here.
