If you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk, you may want to pay close attention to the chair you’re using. A new study has found that office chairs may be putting your health at risk.
The study, which was conducted by the University of York, looked at a sample of office workers and found that those who sat in chairs that did not support their backs were more likely to suffer from back pain.
Furthermore, the workers who had chairs that did not offer adequate lumbar support were also more likely to experience fatigue and discomfort in their lower back region.
Sadly, most of us tend to spend a whole lot of time sitting behind an office desk. Whether you work from home or from an office setup, the chair that you sit on makes a whole lot of difference to your posture, circulation, and even digestion. The way you sit in your chair also indicates how productive you are at work.
In this article, we want to explore some of the dangers that you may be exposing yourself to with your chair and possible measures.
What Is the Proper Sitting Posture?
The first thing that you need to do is to make sure that you have the proper sitting posture. This means that your feet should be flat on the floor and your knees should be at a 90-degree angle.
Your back should be straight and your shoulders should be relaxed. If you are using a computer, your eyes should be level with the top of the screen.
If you are sitting in an ergonomic chair, you may want to adjust the height and angle of the seat so that it is comfortable for you.
Health Risks Associated With Prolonged Sitting
It is no news that prolonged sitting is bad for your health. In fact, research has shown that prolonged sitting can lead to a whole host of health problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
One of the reasons why prolonged sitting is so bad for your health is because it increases your risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. These are disorders that affect the muscles, bones, and joints.
One of the most common musculoskeletal disorders that can be caused by prolonged sitting is lower back pain. This is because when you sit for long periods of time, your muscles and spine start to tighten up. This can lead to a lot of strain on your back and can even cause herniated disks.
Another common problem that is associated with prolonged sitting is poor circulation. When you sit for long periods of time, your blood starts to pool in your legs. This can lead to a condition called venous stasis which can cause a whole host of problems such as swelling, pain, and even ulcers.
Prolonged sitting can also cause problems with your digestion. When you sit for long periods of time, your intestines start to compress. This can lead to a condition called gastro paresis which can cause nausea, vomiting, and even bloating.
So, as you can see, there are quite a few health risks that you are exposing yourself to if you spend a lot of time sitting down.
What Can You Do To Reduce The Risks?
Fortunately, there are quite a few things that you can do to reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting. Let us look at some practical measures that you can take to prevent problems caused by office chairs.
Take Health Breaks
You may be tempted to sit in your chair for long periods of time, but it is important to take regular breaks. Make sure to stand up and walk around for at least a few minutes every hour. This will help to keep your muscles and joints loose and will also help to circulate your blood. Health breaks will enhance your productivity as well as protect your health.
Choose the Right Chair
One of the most important things that you can do to reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting is to choose the right chair. Look for a chair that has good lumbar support and that allows you to adjust the height.
You may also want to consider investing in a standing desk. This is a desk that allows you to work while standing. This may take some getting used to, but it can be a great way to reduce the amount of time that you spend sitting down.
Exercise Regularly
Another great way to reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting is to exercise regularly. Exercise helps to keep your muscles and joints strong and healthy. It also helps to improve your circulation. So, make sure to add some exercise to your daily routine.
Get an Ergonomic Office Chair
If you want to reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting, then you need to get an ergonomic office chair. Ergonomic chairs are designed to provide support and comfort while you are sitting. They are also adjustable so that you can find the perfect position for your body.
Find a Suitable Office Desk
Did you know that the type of office desk you have determines how sit? If your desk is too high, then you will end up slouching. If it is too low, then you will hunch over. So, it is important to find an office desk that is the right height for you.
An ergonomic office chair and a suitable office desk can go a long way in reducing the risks associated with prolonged sitting.
Proper Posture
Last but not least, it is important to maintain proper posture while you are sitting. Make sure to keep your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. You may also want to invest in a footrest if you find that your feet are not reaching the floor.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting. So, make sure to take care of your health and choose the right office furniture for your needs.
We are a company that is keen on ensuring that you have the right office chair and desk. This will help avert the various dangers associated with different types of office chairs.