What Sitting is Doing to Your Body?

In recent years there has been a lot of coverage from the media, and in research about the impact of long term sitting has on the body. Research (1) has shown that prolonged sitting has numerous adverse affects if maintained for a long period of time. Prolonged sitting has been linked to heart disease (2), colon cancer and central obesity. There have also been links to varicose veins and in some extreme cases deep vein thrombosis.

Prolonged sitting which can cause a decrease in bone density, which over a long period can lead to osteoporosis. It has also been shown to lead to an over productive pancreas, and can eventually lead to diabetes (1). It has also been shown to cause decreased flexibility and intervertebral disk damage, which can lead to lower back pain. Prolonged sitting can be avoided by a variety of methods. Some could include using a sit-stand desk, taking regular breaks (every 1.5-2 hours) or having your workstation assessed to encourage ideal spinal alignment.