Sitting Too Much Can Cause Back Pain
By Debra Rodzinak
If you sit for most of the day, drive for hours at a time, and watch TV or play video games more than two hours per day, you could be at risk for back pain. Such unpleasant side effects of prolonged sitting include an aching back, puffy legs, constipation, fluid retention, and brain fog.
Prolonged Sitting
Most people, surprisingly, spend an average of more than half the day seated. It is not surprising that:
- Back pain is experienced by many of these people
- The spine is compressed 30 percent more while sitting than when standing
- The risk for lower back pain, a herniated disc, a slipped disc, sciatica, or degenerative disc disease is increased with sitting for long periods
- Other serious conditions, such as weight gain, depression, and heart issues can develop from prolonged sitting
Solutions to Excessive Sitting
The obvious solution to excessive sitting is to not sit for such long periods. Simple in theory, sometimes people are not able to find a healthy sitting/standing balance. Some ways to solve this problem include:
- When working at a desk, take a break every 30 minutes and stand up. If possible, adjust your workstation to include an adjustable desk to allow work to continue while in the standing position.
- If it is not possible to stand up every 30 minutes, stretch and move the neck and back muscles. For those who are seated behind a steering wheel, try to stretch the legs one at a time.
- Try to include movement into the daily routine. Moderate activities such as climbing stairs or parking the car in the last parking spot and walking to the store can be helpful.
- Visit a doctor of chiropractic for a gentle spinal adjustment. With increased pressure on the spine, a chiropractor can relieve the pressure that occurs to the spine and joints.
Chiropractic Helps Back Pain
If you are suffering from back pain and stiffness from prolonged sitting, drop by The Joint to discuss your treatment options with a highly qualified doctor of chiropractic. With more than 370 locations nationwide, finding a location near you is simple and stress-free.
At The Joint, only natural methods of pain relief are used. With no pesky insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, finding relief for your sore back due to prolonged sitting is only a walk-in away.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.