We know that many people sit for long periods of time, whether it is commuting to and from work, at work, or at home. Besides the stiffness and muscle fatigue that accompanies sitting, many serious health problems, such as increased risk of disease and injury, can develop if sitting is done for too long over many years.

Let’s take a look at what sitting does to our bodies:

Muscle Fatigue

• Sitting for extended periods of time without alternating the body’s position can affect the muscles in the torso, neck and shoulders. Because the muscles in these parts of the body must be held in a somewhat fixed position while sitting, the blood vessels are squeezed and blood flow is reduced to these places, causing fatigue. This muscle fatigue also can contribute to overall exhaustion, stiffness, and muscle tightness.

Lowers Blood Circulation

• Besides increasing muscle fatigue, the lowered blood circulation that accompanies sitting also can lead to a host of other problems. Blood often pools in the lower legs, resulting in numbness and varicose veins.

Decreased Fitness

• Over time, those who must sit for many hours at a time are more likely to experience decreased fitness, and a higher risk for injury and disease, especially those who also have little to no physical activity in their lives. People who sit for too long are more likely to be overweight and have a higher risk of heart attack.

Increased Risk of Chronic Back and Neck Injuries

• Sitting for a long time places a high amount of stress on the spine, specifically in the lower back and neck regions. Over time, sitting can result in compression of the spinal discs that leads to compromised spinal nutrition, pain, and discomfort. Additionally, because muscles in the back and neck become tightened from pressure, decreased range of motion creates stiffness and pain.

We can offer comprehensive treatment and lifestyle counseling for pain and discomfort you may be experiencing as a result of sitting too long. At Seaman Chiropractic, we offer gentle adjustments and have a special table for any disc problems that may have developed. A combination of chiropractic, massage therapy, and strength training can begin to reverse the damage done from prolonged sitting. If you’re at the point of discomfort or pain in your neck or back, give your Niles chiropractor a call at 773-545-2233 and begin feeling better!