Get Healthier With an Adjustable Desk
By Rachel Carver
Too much sitting increases your risk for cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and premature death. And this does not even take into account muscle and joint pain that can happen when you stay in one position for too long.
Many people who spend long hours at a desk will round out their shoulders and lean close to the monitor. Others may cross their feet, putting more weight and pressure on one hip. These habits combined with sitting still for too long can cause neck, shoulder, and low back pain. Your neighborhood Joint Chiropractic clinic can treat your pain with spinal adjustments that will get you back to your life.
In addition to getting to know your local Joint Chiropractic team, another great ergonomic tool to consider for your workspace is an adjustable desk.
Height-adjustable desks are becoming popular in today's office environment. They come in a variety of styles, and they make the transition from sitting to standing very easy. Here are some health benefits of an adjustable desk.
Reduces Back Pain
Back pain is common among office workers. It is easy to forget about our posture while deep in a project.
Studies show employees with chronic back pain can benefit from adjustable desks. A CDC study found these desks can reduce upper neck and back pain by as much as 54 percent within four weeks.
Improves Mood
Participants in a seven-week study reported experiencing less stress and fatigue than those who sat all day. Many of the participants had more energy when they could stand part of the day.
Prevent Unhealthy Weight Gain
Too much sitting has been linked to obesity and excess weight. Standing may burn 7-10 calories per hour more than sitting. These numbers add up if you stand consistently. Losing and maintaining weight depends on calories burned being higher than the calories consumed.
The Bottom Line
Movement is crucial to our overall health and wellness. Purchasing an adjustable desk for your home office or asking your employer to consider this option will give you another tool to be more intentional about your daily movement. Alternating between sitting and standing every 30-60 minutes can also decrease your risk of muscle and joint strain from repetitive sitting.
Give an adjustable desk a try. And remember The Joint Chiropractic team will be there for you whether you lean too close to your monitor or accidentally stand too long. The Joint's affordable pricing and walk-in visits make care accessible to everyone.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Surprise, Ariz.