To Stand or Not to Stand?
By Sara Butler
Standing desks have been lauded as the answer to back pain caused by long hours sitting in front of a computer at work. While it is true that sitting for long periods of time contributes to serious long-term health issues as well as aches and pains, standing for long periods of time comes with its own hazards. But wait! Don't throw out your standing desk just yet, because there are things you can do to improve your health whether you're standing or sitting or doing a mixture of both. Here are some standing and sitting tips you need to know to keep your body healthy from the chiropractors at The Joint.
Proper Posture All the Time!
Whether you're standing up or sitting down, understanding proper posture will help you to stay healthy. That's because sitting and standing for prolonged periods can cause you to hunch forward or hyper-arch your back. Poor body mechanics can land you squarely in the chiropractor's office, complaining of aches and pains.
Proper posture in combination with a few office additions can help support your body properly. First, find the right office chair that supports your body. It should fit well and allow you to adjust the height so your feet are flat on the ground. The chair should also fit against your lower back to offer lumbar support as you keep your eyes straight ahead and remember to take frequent breaks.
When standing, make sure to have a pair of supportive shoes on, not heels or ballet flats. The arch of your foot needs to be supported and your feet cushioned properly. An investment in an anti-fatigue mat can also help to take some of the pressure off your legs and joints. Make sure your screen is at eye level or just below, use arm supports under your wrists at the keyboard and mouse, and keep your shoulders back.
Mix it Up!
It's best to alternate between standing and sitting if you can. Perhaps one of the best things you can do is learn to take short, frequent breaks to stretch and move around. This can help to keep you from being locked in one position too long and keep your body healthy.
Talk to the chiropractors at The Joint for more proper posture tips as well as standing and sitting desk tips today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in