Move More With a Standing Desk
By Rachel Carver
According to the American Heart Association, too much sitting is dangerous to our health. Sitting too long can lead to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and shorten a life span. Many of us work long hours at our desks which leads to a sedentary lifestyle.
We know more movement can have a positive impact on your health and wellness. Standing while working, even in 30-minute intervals, can burn calories and combat a predominately sedentary work environment. Here are some benefits of standing desks.
Reduced Back Pain
Eighty percent of adults will experience back pain. If you work in an office, you will most likely have a sore back at some point in your career. The 2011 "Take-a-Stand Project" found participants experienced a 54 percent reduction in upper back and neck pain when they stood an average of 66 minutes while working.
Lower Heart Disease Risk
Studies have linked a sedentary lifestyle with a 90 percent in the risk of cardiovascular mortality and a 147 percent increase in the risk of cardiovascular events. Conversely, people who stand while working are half as likely to experience cardiovascular issues.
Lessen Weight Gain and Obesity
To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you take in. Sitting all day at your desk uses less energy, which does not burn calories. Too much sitting can also result in weight gain over time. You can reduce your chances of weight gain by standing more at work. Standing three hours each day burns about 50 calories. This becomes 750 weekly calories.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels and Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Individuals with large blood sugar spikes are at higher risk of becoming diabetic. Blood sugar spikes also correspond with poor health. Alternating between sitting and standing every 30 minutes can reduce blood sugar spikes and keep your energy level throughout the day. Standing 30 minutes after lunch might stop you from purchasing that candy bar during your afternoon break.
Improve Productivity
It is not uncommon to get drowsy at work, especially if you are reading over complex documents or operating in a creative mode for long periods of time. When you stand, you breathe differently and naturally move more. Standing keeps you alert and more energized, which will help you focus more on that big project you are working on.
Remember too much standing can also put strain on your joints. The key is to rotate between sitting and standing. This will decrease health risks that come with being sedentary and help you manage your back and neck pain.
Routine adjustments at The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you will keep your pain under control. Do not wait until the pain makes sitting at your desk uncomfortable. Ask for a standing desk and set a plan with The Joint team to stay healthy in your office career.
To learn more about managing back pain, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractor in Lexington, S.C.