Standing Versus Sitting: The Great Seat Debate
By Debra Rodzinak
To stand or not to stand … that is the question. Many workplaces want to maintain a business-like appearance. When dealing with employee workspaces, there has never really been a question of whether a person sits at their desk or stands. Sitting has always been the acceptable position to work. There are entire lines of office chairs that are created for those who sit for long periods of time.
However, as times change and workplaces become aware of the damage long periods of sitting can do to a worker’s spine, many companies are encouraging their employees to work standing up. Shifting from standing to sitting has been found to be much better for a person’s spine than prolonged periods of just sitting or prolonged periods of just standing.
The Standing Argument
With advances in technology, the need to sit at a computer workstation or desk has created the problems related to sitting for long periods: Weakened core muscles, poor posture, pain in the lumbar region. By standing and working, many argue that comfort, performance, productivity, and morale are increased, creating an overall happier workplace.
The Sitting Argument
While standing may have its benefits, prolonged periods of standing can also have its limitations. For example, those who stand constantly at their job like bartenders, stylists, and cashiers, will be the first to argue that standing all day without a variety to their movement can also cause some of the same problems that sitting does: Hip, leg, and back pain, poor posture, and tension in the back and neck muscles.
Which Argument Wins?
They both do. The best approach to settling the argument is to agree that both sides have valid points. It is not healthy to sit or stand for prolonged periods. Therefore, the option of allowing the worker to shift their workstation up or down allows for subtle changes between sitting and standing that can increase overall worker satisfaction and health.
Taking Care of Your Spine
In addition to standing and sitting alternatively during the day, many workers choose to begin their work week with a trip to the chiropractor. A chiropractor can evaluate, adjust, and relieve the spine of any misalignments that would cause a worker to benefit from increased movement during the workday.
If you are interested in improving your workplace environment by alternating between standing and sitting, begin with a trip to the experts at The Joint. With you in charge of your chiropractic care, our doctors will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to address your workplace concerns. Drop by The Joint today and stand up for a better work environment!