Why SITTING too much is not good for YOU
Research has linked sitting for long periods to increased risk for developing chronic health conditions
There is a great deal of research that shows people that sit too have an increased risk for developing a myriad of chronic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and even cancer. It increases the risk of obesity and affects your overall metabolic system. In addition you probably just don’t feel that good after sitting for long periods of time because our bodies were designed to move!
Do you get back aches or pain after sitting at your desk for hours?
Many people do, especially if they are pregnant or postpartum, or already have issues with pain.
The key is not to stay in one position too long, to alternate.
If you are working with a laptop, think about moving it to a higher surface so you can stand.
Using a laptop stand as I have in this video and an additional keyboard is helpful to get the screen at the correct angle.
If you need corrective lenses for reading, purchasing a pair of computer glasses will avoid tipping your head back so you can read through the bottom of your glasses (this could result in the neck pain or headaches you may be having!). Purchase a full size lens (not reading glass/granny glasses) which you can even obtain at your local drugstore.
Change your positions during the day. . .
Excessive sitting is not only linked to increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, as well as other health conditions, but too much sitting also weakens your gluteus maximus muscle (buttocks muscle) and tightens your hip flexors. We need a strong gluteus maximus muscle and flexible hip flexors (see stretch above) for a healthy back and pelvic girdle. And the endurance for when the baby is here 24/7!
So...
1️⃣ Try to alternate between standing and sitting during the day if possible.
2️⃣ Stand or walk when talking on the phone.
3️⃣ Walk or stand during your lunch break if you have been sitting a lot.
4️⃣ Use a standing desk and alternate your positions or put your computer on a high counter.
5️⃣ Don't avoid the stairs! They are your friend as long as it is not causing you pain. Use the rail for safety, and only what you need for support! Walking up the stairs "lopsided" is hard on your body.
6️⃣ When sitting you may feel better using a small pillow or lumbar support behind your back and when sleeping on your side a pillow between your legs and a small folded towel under your belly.
For more great information, exercises and tips and a step by step approach to your pain:
Get your copy NOW—- “Sacroiliac Pain, understanding the Pelvic Girdle Musculoskeletal Method“ now at OPTP.com, OR Amazon.com.
Get your copy NOW —-"Back and Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy and Postpartum" 2020 at OPTP.com or Amazon.com.
Deborah B. Riczo, PT, DPT, MEd Confidential Property of Deborah B. Riczo ©2020 Riczo Health Education. Not to be duplicated in any way without express consent of Deborah B. Riczo.