Sitting Might Be Killing You. Here’s What You Can Do

Introduction

Think about what you do in a day. If you are a modern day office worker, a majority of the time would be spent sitting—whether it's at work, during our commute, or even while relaxing at home. However, recent studies have shown that prolonged sitting can have detrimental effects on our health. It's crucial to address this sedentary lifestyle to maintain our well-being.

At ATLAS, we prioritise more than just pain relief. We support your overall well-being journey by working with you to identify the root causes of your discomfort and offering holistic care through routine establishment and habit modification. In this blog, we will discuss the dangers of prolonged sitting, strategies to counter a sedentary lifestyle, and how chiropractic care can help mitigate these risks.

The Dangers of Prolonged Sitting

Prolonged sitting can lead to several health issues, one of which is blood pooling in the legs. This phenomenon often occurs during long-haul flights and can significantly impact blood circulation and brain health. When blood pools in the lower half of the body, it means less blood is available to circulate through the upper half, particularly to the brain. To compensate, the body releases more glucose into the bloodstream, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels and inhibit fat burning. Over time, these metabolic changes increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. In fact, statistics show that extended sitting can double the risk of diabetes, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 90%, and elevate the risk of death by 49%.

Strategies to Combat Sedentary Lifestyle

The key to mitigating the risks associated with prolonged sitting is regular movement. Setting alarms to remind yourself to stand and walk periodically can make a significant difference. For example, taking a short walk every 20 minutes can break up long periods of sitting. Incorporating bodyweight exercises like push-ups, planks, and squats into your daily routine can also help. Additionally, integrating movement into daily tasks—such as opting for walking meetings or using a standing desk—can further reduce the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care plays a vital role in combating the effects of prolonged sitting. Regular chiropractic adjustments help maintain joint movement, which is crucial for overall health. they can help with

1. Improving circulation by promoting better blood flow throughout the body, which can enhance oxygen and nutrient delivery to various tissues and organs.
2. Enhancing metabolic function by boosting the body's ability to convert food into energy efficiently, supporting overall health and vitality.
3. Preventing chronic diseases by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management strategies to reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long should I sit before taking a break?

It is recommended to take a break and move around every 20-30 minutes to counter the negative effects of prolonged sitting.

2. Can using a standing desk help reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting?

Yes, using a standing desk can help reduce the time spent sitting and encourage more movement throughout the day, which can mitigate some health risks.

3. What are some simple exercises I can do at my desk?

Simple exercises include chair squats, desk push-ups, seated leg lifts, and stretching. These can be done periodically to break up long periods of sitting.

4. How does chiropractic care help with issues caused by prolonged sitting?

Chiropractic care can help by improving circulation, enhancing metabolic function, and preventing chronic diseases through regular adjustments and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

5. How can I ensure I am getting enough movement if I work a desk job?

Set reminders to stand and move every 20-30 minutes, use a standing desk, and integrate short exercise sessions into your daily routine to ensure adequate movement.

Conclusion

Prolonged sitting poses significant health risks, including increased chances of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even death. However, by incorporating regular movement into your daily routine, you can mitigate these risks and lead a healthier lifestyle. It's time to take proactive steps (metaphorically and literally!) to combat the dangers of prolonged sitting and prioritise our well-being. So drop by our studio to learn how chiropractic care can help you overcome your sedentary lifestyle.