Can sitting affect the spine?

We have become a society of “sitters”. Most new jobs these days require a tremendous amount of sitting. We sit at our desks, in front of our computers, in the car driving/commuting, in front of the TV or reading, and even computer gaming. A larger and larger portion of each of our days is spent sitting!

Researchers are finding now that you are more likely to develop a back problem from sitting all day than if you had a physical job that required lots of activity. The sitting posture has a tendency to compress the spine, particularly the discs, nerves and arteries, leading to back pain, muscle tension, pinched nerves, and joint stiffness. Prolonged sitting, day after day, can have profound affects on one’s health, significantly injuring the joints of the spine, discs, nerves, and muscles. Not to mention the problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle, like heart problems, vascular problems, diabetes, and many more.

What can sitters do to avoid some of the health issues linked with sitting all day?
1. Adjust your chair and computer monitor, so that you are sitting as straight as possible. An ergonomic adjustable chair may be of help. The monitor and paper work should be at eye level, as much as possible, so you don’t have to bend the head forward.
2. A firm back support with a good lumbar roll can maintain better posture.
3. Proper desk and keyboard height is essential, making sure you are not reaching up or down all day to work. Also make sure the work is close enough for you so you don’t have to lean forward.
4. A foot rest can relieve pressure on hips and legs.
5. Getting up and walking/stretching every half hour is a must!

Many jobs require long periods of sitting. If you have one, and experience frequent back pain, please talk to Dr. Senser about this. He has some great “desk exercises” and procedures that may help alleviate the problem. We can help!