Ailments that we can have from sitting for a long time:
1.- Deviation of the spine
Sitting for long periods of time while adopting a bad posture affects our spine. If we are not sitting correctly, it is common for the well-known scoliosis to appear. or deviation of the spine.
At the cervical level, our body suffers from the base of the head. This is because, for example, when we use the computer, it's not at eye level but much lower. This forces us to tilt our heads and put excessive strain on our cervical spine.
2.- Poor circulation in the legs
Another complication that results from prolonged sitting is circulatory problems. Keeping your legs in one position makes blood circulation difficult. In severe cases, veins can become blocked, which is known as venous thrombosis.
Poor circulation in the legs promotes the appearance of varicose veins. It also causes fluid retention in the legs and ankles. That's why it's important to keep your lower extremities moving and change positions frequently.
3.- Obesity
Lack of physical activity promotes weight gain. When you have a busy life If you're sedentary, the number of calories you consume is always greater than the number you burn. This leads to the appearance of body fat.
Obesity leads to other serious problems such as cardiovascular disease. This is the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Figures indicate that in 2021 there were around 17.9 million of fatalities.
4.- Heart diseases
You'll be twice as likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease because it puts strain on your heart, which means you're at high risk for heart attack, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
5.- Muscle stiffness
When you sit for a long time and this bad habit is repeated daily, Muscle atrophy may occur. This is due to a lack of movement in the muscles and joints.
That's why it's important to stay active during your workday. The muscles that often stiffen most when we sit for long periods of time are those in the neck, shoulders, and back.
6.- It affects psychologically
If you dedicate yourself monothematically to one activity and what you do isn't enjoyable, it will generate a stress factor that could lead to the person feeling like a slave to a chair, having to stay there every day. Over time, depression can develop.
In general, research seems to indicate that sitting less and moving more contribute to better health. You can start by simply standing instead of sitting when you have the opportunity, or finding ways to walk while you work.
You can put these habits into practice
- If you spend most of your time sitting, always take active breaks. You can do this every half hour or every hour.
- After eating, don't sit, walk.
- Stretch your muscles and joints regularly.
- Exercise at least four times a week.
- Try not to use a car or other transportation to travel short distances; it's best to walk.
- Adopt one position correct when sitting.
- If you'll be sitting in front of the computer for long periods of time, make sure it's always at eye level.
Many illnesses and ailments can be prevented, including those caused by prolonged sitting. While you don't need to drastically abandon some activities, it's important to alternate them with exercise.
