Is Your Aching Back Linked to Sitting?

Watching TV or playing video games for more than two hours a day, driving for hours at a time, or sitting for most of the day can lead to back pain. You’ve probably experienced stiffness or an aching back from too much sitting, but it can also cause other issues including constipation, fluid retention, and brain fog. Read about the effects of prolonged sitting and how to counteract it.

Prolonged Sitting

The average person spends more than half their day sitting down. These circumstances are resulting in:

• Many of these people are suffering from back pain.
• An increased risk of back injuries, such as herniated discs and degenerative disc disease.
• Long-term sitting can also lead to weight gain, depression, and heart issues.

Overcome Excessive Sitting

One obvious way to combat excessive sitting is to spend less time sitting. It sounds simple, but sometimes people are unable to find a healthy sitting/standing balance. Here are a few ways to break up your prolonged sitting:

• Take breaks every 30 minutes while working at a desk. Adding an adjustable desk to your workstation will allow you to continue working while standing.
• You should at least stretch the neck and back muscles every 30 minutes if standing up is not possible. Try to stretch your legs one at a time if your job involves driving.
• Make movement a part of your daily routine. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking in the last spot and walking to the store can be a beneficial way to add moderate exercise into your daily life.
• An adjustment to the spine can be achieved with the help of a chiropractor. Chiropractic treatment can relieve the pressure that occurs to the spine and joints.

Relieve Back Pain with Chiropractic Care

If you are experiencing back pain or stiffness due to prolonged sitting, visit your local Brooklyn chiropractor to discuss your treatment options. Since 2002, Williamsburg Chiropractic has served Brooklyn residents. After your first visit, we believe you will agree that we are one of New York's best chiropractic practices. Contact us to learn more about our team and services.