How Prolonged Sitting is a Huge Health Risk

Neck and Back Pain
Posture plays a huge role in recurring episodes of neck and back pain. To avoid back pain take a break on the hour and walk around for at least 5 minutes. Proper sitting posture will also lessen strain on the muscles and ligaments. Sit up straight against the back of your chair and balance the weight over your hips. Your feet should touch the floor and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. This can be achieved by setting the height of your chair or using a footstool.

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Weak Muscles
Lack of exercise and mobility are the primary reasons why muscles become weak. This leads to muscles cramping, poor blood circulation and muscle injuries. Making a point of taking breaks to stretch your legs can counteract these ailments.

Poor Posture
Prolonged sitting and poor posture will eventually lead to spinal problems or spondylitis. Make sure your back is straight and well supported and that your legs are positioned comfortably.

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Poor Blood Circulation
The lack of movement when one sits, slows down one’s blood flow and heart activity. Poor blood circulation can lead to the blood being pooled which can cause varicose veins. Muscles are also deprived of necessary nutrients and oxygen which leads to fatigue.

Deep Vein Thrombosis
Sitting decreases the blood flow to your lower body which leads to swelling and pain. You are also at a greater risk of developing a blood clot in one of the deeper veins in your leg, causing a deep vein thrombosis, which can be potentially deadly. Chest pains and shortness of breath while sitting may be an indication of a blood clot. Your life may be at risk if the blood clot travels to your lungs.

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Obesity
The body hormones that control the fat deposition leading to weight gain shut down with prolonged sitting. This reduces the production of fat fighting enzymes by almost 50% and inevitably leads to obesity.

Now that you are aware of the harmful effects of prolonged sitting, it’s best to remember to take a 5 minute walking break on the hour, avoid fatty fast foods and drink enough water to keep yourself hydrated. It is also beneficial to do some form of exercise at the end of the day as research has shown that exercising in the morning is not enough to combat the ill effects of prolonged sitting.