For many people, sitting down for up to eight hours per day is the norm. Office workers in particular can spend up to ten hours per day sat in the same position, in the same chair, in the same stagnant environment. It’s not exactly groundbreaking news that sitting still for extended periods can dramatically affect an individual’s well being, but with so many of the modern workforce at risk of diminishing health, it’s important that we take a look at the problem and address it before it’s too late – sitting for too long has in fact been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and even cancer.
Regardless of where you spend your time sat down, your seating position is hugely important. Sitting incorrectly places undue strain on your spine, joints and muscles which, if left unchanged, can result in serious health issues (above) further down the line.
If your job requires you to be sat at a desk for the majority of the day, it’s imperative that you think about your sitting position seriously as it only takes a few months of slouching to result in neck pain, back pain and even pain in your wrists. First and foremost, it’s important that your chair provides ample back support. So many office chairs being used today are seriously dated and offer little to no support. Your chair should have a small curve in the lumbar spine to support the natural curvature of your lower spine. If your current chair doesn’t offer any support you could try using a lumbar support of look at other seating options at somewhere like Furniture@Work
Once you’ve got your chair sorted, it’s time to look at how you sit on it. It’s important to have your eyes level with the top of your screen so as not to place strain on your neck – looking down at your screen can cause serious neck problems over time, as well as resulting in headaches. Raising your monitors, if necessary, is the most effective way to ensure that your neck is kept in a neutral position. Beneath the desk, your feet should be placed flat on the floor with your knees roughly bent at a right angle. Having your feet not touching the floor, or bending your legs too much can restrict blood flow – think pins and needles – and become uncomfortable.
As well as making subtle changes to the way you sit at your desk, take time to leave your desk and walk around too. Don’t stay sat at your desk during your lunch hour, and instead go for a short walk outside. Moving your legs which have lay dormant for the majority of the day will make you feel rejuvenated and refreshed. Both your body and mind will benefit from making small alterations.
