Sitting Too Much Doesn't Just Cause Back Pain
By Amy Silva
Many people spend a majority of their time sitting down. Chances are unless you have a physical job in which you are moving constantly throughout day, you're sitting too long. We sit while at work, on the couch, at the computer at home and while driving. Are you mindful of your posture? Do you ever get back pain? A sedentary lifestyle isn't just a cause of back pain. Studies show it can cause other health problems as well. There are some things you can do on your own to lessen and perhaps even prevent back pain caused by sitting too long. The chiropractors at The Joint may also help provide relief.
How Sitting Too Much Can Affect Your Health
While studies don't have a particular number of hours as to when it's dangerous for health, they do estimate it's about eight hours or more. Those who sit this long have a higher risk of contracting heart disease and type 2 diabetes than those who sat less. There is also an elevated risk in developing certain cancers, including ovarian, breast and colon cancers. The physical pain associated with sitting too long isn't just limited to the back, it can also include neck, hip and shoulder pain. Compressing the spine in this way may lead to premature disc degeneration which will cause even more pain down the road.
Tips to Lessen or Prevent Pain and Future Health Problems
- Pay attention to your posture - Consider buying an ergonomic chair to help posture. Sit up as straight as possible and try to hold your head straight to prevent your neck from leaning forward.
- See a chiropractor for pain - Chiropractors can not only help provide relief for back pain associated with sitting too much, they may be able to help correct your bad posture so you're able to sit in a much safer way.
- Take breaks from sitting - After sitting for a period of time, stand up to stretch periodically and take a short walk around the house or office to give your back a break.
- Get moving - Exercise may help relieve some back pain, but it doesn't completely take away the health risks associated with excessive sitting.
Most of us take a break after standing or moving for a while by sitting down to rest, but we can benefit immensely by taking a break from sitting to move around. Follow the tips above and visit the chiropractors at The Joint for back pain you may have due to sitting too long. They may be able to alleviate your pain and prevent any in the future from improper posture.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in North Columbus Crossing, Ga.