In today’s world, there are millions of jobs in which people are expected to sit at a desk for 8+ hours a day. Whether an accountant, a secretary, or a student, you spend the majority of your time in a resting position.
That can’t be bad right? Humans are comfortable this way, how can it go wrong?
There are multitudes of problems associated with prolonged sitting and general inactivity. Recently, researchers found that physical inactivity is a giant precursor to other health problems, like cardiovascular diseases. Inactivity increases the risk of developing high blood pressure and coronary heart diseases as well as the risk of developing certain forms of cancer.
Physical inactivity also has psychological disadvantages. Feelings of depression and anxiety can stem from being stationary too often.
The biggest issue is that it’s engrained in our society. There won’t be any outcries for too much sitting. But you can make personal goals to better your health and increase your physical activity.
The ACA recommends that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. That can be 30 minute sessions or three 60 minute sessions. However you can, get exercise and live longer!
The Chiropractic Issue with Sitting
Some people are fortunate enough to have learned great posture and can maintain it for long bouts of sitting. Most of us are not that way. If you think about the way you’re sitting while you read this, is your back straight? Is your neck aligned with your shoulders? Most importantly, is your lower back aligned?
The answer to those questions is probably no. It’s a huge part of the reason that so many Americans experience low back pain in their lives.
Experts would tell you to stand and stretch your back every 10-15 minutes during sitting activities. This releases pressure on your intervertebral disks and allows you to keep future pain at bay.
If you’re experiencing lower back pain because of your job, come in and talk with Spring Creek Medical’s chiropractor. He’ll help you get past pain and set new goals for better spine health going forward.
