A lot of Americans spend a lot of time sitting at their jobs, as many are tethered to computer workstations or performing a so-called “desk job”. Research now reveals conclusively that sitting all day not only can cause some serious musculoskeletal injuries and pain, but it can even significantly reduce life span, according to some.
Sitting for more than 11 hours a day can increase risk of death by 40 percent, according to Dr. Hidde van der Ploeg, a senior researcher at the University of Sydney. It increases triglyceride levels and cholestorol, the doctor says, causing metabolic problems, larger bottoms, and thicker waistlines.
Regular trips to the gym may not even be enough to stem the tide, they say. In fact, many experts recommend a 50:50 sit/stand ratio, perhaps easier said than done in today’s office environment.
Sitting too much can cause leg pain, join pain, back pain and other problems, which we see in our pain management centers.
What to do?
Well, there are a number of suggestions to help avoid this, including:
— Acquiring a standing desk, a desk which permits standing for longer periods of the day, mixed with seated work. Many are variable to adjust and lift.
— Frequent laps around the office. Use it as an excuse to get up and around and get some fresh air.
— Walking meetings, where you and your meeting partner stroll while talking, rather than sit at a desk or conference table.
— Desk exercises, routines you can do at work, to keep yourself properly stretched and limber. Ask one of our medical professionals for some advice.
If you have a “desk job” and spend a lot of time sitting there, on the drive to and from work, or at home, it may be causing health problems and pain. Talk to us about any symptoms you are experiencing. Our pain management centers are located throughout Philadelphia. Here is a link.
