Excessive Sitting and Its Many Health Issues
By Donna Stark
There are many reasons to be grateful for that desk job you have. You get to bring a paycheck home every week, you've made great friends in the office, and your boss throws one heck of a party at the end of every year. But there is a downside to your job and unfortunately, it can lead to significant health issues down the road. If you are required to sit all day long at work, keep reading! It's important to know what you may be facing in the near-distant future.
Health Issues to Be Aware Of
It's bad enough that you have to sit all day and stare at a computer screen, but what's worse are the potential health complications that could arise from doing so. Let's take a look at a few of them here.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome - Carpal tunnel syndrome affects many people who spend their days typing away on a keyboard. It can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and arm. And if left untreated, it can lead to muscle loss, loss of sensation, and permanent nerve damage. Wrist braces, cold compresses, and proper wrist posture (yes, that's a thing) can help alleviate the pain.
- Sciatica - Sitting for hours on end is one of the leading causes of inflammation, and when inflammation occurs in the spine and pelvic area, you could end up dealing with something called sciatica. When the sciatic nerve is pressed upon or irritated, the most common symptom to appear is often a sharp pain that runs from the lower back, down the leg, and into the foot. It's important to sit with correct posture, stretch daily, stay hydrated (your muscles need water), and move frequently throughout the day.
- Low back pain - Many people who suffer from low back pain don't realize that the time sitting behind their desk could be the main culprit. Sitting for extended periods of time can lead to weakened core muscles, poor posture, and excess stress on the spine. To counteract some of the damage that sitting can cause, be sure to exercise daily and take plenty of breaks to stretch while at work.
Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief
Finding a good chiropractor can be the key to alleviating your pain or reducing the risk of it from happening in the first place. So head on in to see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic if you have a job that requires you to sit during the day. In addition to the gentle adjustments they will provide, they can also advise you on any lifestyle changes you should make that can help you achieve pain-free days again.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tampa, Fla.