Sitting for Long Periods of Time Can Negatively Affect the Body from Head to Toe. Here’s How
Few people who work at desks all day haven’t heard that their seated posture is killing them. May seem like an exaggeration, but the truth is that without a standing desk and ergonomic chairs that promote healthy work postures, you are, in fact, negatively affecting your overall health. And, while most people are aware of the fact that sitting isn’t good for them, few know how poor posture actually influences their health.
The Brain
When you sit in an unhealthy posture for long periods of time, blood clots can form and, if they travel to the brain, they can cause a stroke.
The Neck
Believe it or not, fluid that builds in the legs while you’re sitting for long periods of time can travel up to the neck at night, when you’re lying down, and exacerbate an existing sleep apnea problem.
Heart and Lungs
Sitting for long periods of time and not getting enough exercise are often contributing factors for heart disease.
Arms
An active lifestyle that doesn’t include sitting for extended periods of time can help reduce the risks of hypertension and high blood pressure. Poor posture also contributes to a variety of repetitive-stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Stomach
Because the enzymes that are required to burn fat lie in blood vessels that can be shut off because of prolonged sitting, there’s a higher risk of obesity. Colon cancer is another serious repercussion of a sedentary lifestyle.
Legs
When you sit for long periods of time, fluid builds in the legs which, as I’ve noted above, can travel to other parts of the body and cause serious problems.
Sitting Can be Changed
As you can see, spending a great deal of time sitting does, in fact, have a negative effect on the whole body. Incorporating more movement in your day, via a standing desk, and maintaining the best possible posture when you are seated, via ergonomic chairs, is the absolute best way to prevent these potentially serious health issues.
Ready to change the way you work? Browse our selection of ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks now.