Top 5 Health Issues Linked to Sitting Too Much and How to Prevent Them
Top 5 Health Issues
Top 5 Health Issues Linked to Sitting Too Much and How to Prevent Them
It’s no secret that many of us spend way too much time sitting—whether we’re at a desk, in front of the TV, or driving. In fact, prolonged sitting has become one of the major culprits behind a variety of health issues. From sciatica pain to poor posture, the negative effects of sitting too much are pretty alarming. Our back pain physiotherapy in Sherwood Park understands the importance of mitigating these risks and offers effective strategies to help you maintain optimal health.
5 Health Risks from Excessive Sitting and How to Counter Them
Our Sciatica and back pain physiotherapy in Sherwood Park offers expert guidance and treatments designed to enhance posture and strengthen back muscles, effectively reducing pain and preventing future issues.
1. Sciatica Pain
One of the most common issues we see in our clinic is sciatica pain. Sitting for long periods, especially with poor posture, can put pressure on the lower back and the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica. Sciatica pain often begins in the lower back and can radiate down the legs, causing discomfort and even numbness. If left untreated, this pain can severely impact your daily life.
2. Lower Back Pain
Closely related to sciatica, lower back pain is another major issue tied to sitting too much. When we sit, particularly in a slouched position, we put extra strain on our spine, which leads to muscle imbalances and tightness. This kind of back pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing discomfort that limits your ability to move freely.
3. Neck and Shoulder Tension
Ever notice that after hours at your desk, your neck and shoulders feel tight or sore? This is another common result of sitting too much. Our bodies are designed to move, and when we stay in one position for too long, muscles start to tighten up. This is especially true if you’re craning your neck forward while working at a computer or hunching over a phone.
4. Poor Circulation
5. Weight Gain and Metabolic Issues
Finally, let’s talk about weight gain and metabolism. When we’re sitting, our body’s ability to burn calories slows down, and over time, this can lead to weight gain. As a result, weight gain can heighten the likelihood of developing metabolic conditions like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
How to Prevent Health Issues Linked to Sitting:
Now that we’ve covered the main health issues, let’s look at how we can prevent them. Small changes can make a big difference!
Move Regularly Throughout the Day
It sounds simple, but taking breaks to move around is one of the best ways to combat the negative effects of sitting. Aim to stand up and stretch or walk around every 30 minutes. Even just a quick lap around the office or a few stretches at your desk can improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. We also encourage patients to consider using a standing desk or taking walking meetings when possible.
Practice Correct Posture While Sitting
When you do have to sit, it’s essential to maintain good posture. Our physiotherapists always emphasize the importance of keeping your feet flat on the floor, your knees at a 90-degree angle, and your back straight against the chair. Try to avoid hunching over or leaning forward for extended periods. Using ergonomic chairs or lumbar support cushions can also help you maintain correct posture while sitting and reduce the strain on your spine.
Strengthen Your Core and Lower Back Muscles
Strong core muscles play a critical role in supporting your spine and improving posture. Regular core exercises, like planks and bridges, can help build and reinforce the muscles that support your lower back and prevent issues like sciatica and lower back pain. These exercises help build core strength and promote better posture.
Stretch Regularly
Muscle tightness is a frequent source of discomfort for those who sit a lot, so incorporating regular stretching into your routine is crucial. Focus on stretches that target the hamstrings, hip flexors, lower back, and shoulders—these areas tend to get tight from prolonged sitting.
Our physiotherapists include standing hamstring stretch, seated forward bend and cross-arm stretch to relieve sciatica pain and keep your muscles loose and flexible.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
Prioritize Movement for a Healthier You:
If you’re experiencing chronic discomfort related to sitting, don’t wait to seek help. Addressing the problem early is crucial for avoiding long-term complications. At Emerald Hills Physiotherapy, we specialize in treating sciatica pain and other conditions related to prolonged sitting. Our physiotherapy is designed to target the root causes of your discomfort and provide lasting relief.
Sitting may seem like a harmless activity, but it can have a major impact on your overall health if done excessively. Our Emerald Hills Physiotherapy helps you improve your posture, relieve sciatica pain, and keep your body moving in a healthy way. If you’re dealing with persistent pain, don’t hesitate to reach out for our back pain therapy in Sherwood Park—it could be just what you need to get back on track.
Our team is ready to assist you with sciatica treatment plans, including effective sciatica pain relief strategies and guidance on correct posture while sitting. Let’s work together to boost your health and vitality!
