The truth about sitting

Explore the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle and tips for staying active.

We’ve all heard the saying, “sitting is the new smoking”. While it might sound a bit dramatic, there’s a growing body of evidence to suggest that spending too much time parked on your backside can have serious health consequences.

What’s the big deal about sitting?

When you sit, your muscles become inactive. This can lead to a range of problems, including:

• Back pain: Prolonged sitting puts pressure on your spine, leading to stiffness and pain.
• Neck pain: Poor posture while sitting can strain your neck muscles.
• Reduced blood flow: Lack of movement can slow down circulation, increasing the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
• Weight gain: Sitting burns fewer calories than standing or walking.
• Increased risk of chronic diseases: Studies have linked prolonged sitting to conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and depression.

How much sitting is too much?

The experts recommend breaking up long periods of sitting with regular movement. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Even small changes, like standing up and stretching every hour, can make a big difference.

Chiropractic care and a healthy spine

We believe that a healthy spine is essential for overall wellbeing. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help to improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and enhance your body’s ability to function optimally.

Proactive chiropractic care can help to prevent the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. By addressing spinal imbalances and improving your posture, chiropractic care can help to reduce your risk of back and neck pain, and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Tips for a healthier lifestyle

• Get moving: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Take breaks from sitting to walk, stretch, or do some light exercise.
• Stand up: Try to stand whenever possible, such as when talking on the phone or waiting in line.
• Use a standing desk: If you spend a lot of time at a computer, consider investing in a standing desk.
• Strengthen your core: Strong core muscles can help support your spine and improve your posture.
• See your chiropractor regularly: Regular chiropractic care can help to maintain spinal health and prevent problems from developing.

Remember, small changes can make a big difference. By taking steps to reduce your sitting time and improve your overall health, you can enjoy a better quality of life.

If you’re concerned about the effects of sitting on your health, or if you’re experiencing back or neck pain, book an appointment with us today. We’ll assess your individual needs and develop a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve your health goals.