In today’s world, many of us spend hours sitting—whether it’s at a desk, in the car, or on the couch. Unfortunately, this sedentary lifestyle comes with health risks and can cause what’s now referred to as “Sitting Disease.” Sitting for long periods can affect your posture, spinal health, and even increase the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
At Bare Chiropractic, we see the impacts of prolonged sitting on the spine every day – but we can also help.
What Is Sitting Disease?
Sitting Disease isn’t a medical condition you’ll find in textbooks, but it’s a term used to describe the negative health effects of a sedentary lifestyle. As modern jobs and daily routines have shifted to involve less physical activity, we’re spending more time seated than ever before. On average, people sit for more than 8 hours a day, and this lack of movement is taking a toll on both our physical and mental health.
Prolonged sitting has been linked to a range of health issues, including poor posture and back pain, increased risk of chronic diseases, and reduced muscle and joint function.
The Effects of Sitting on Your Spine
When it comes to spinal health, sitting for extended periods can be especially damaging. Poor posture, often caused by sitting, puts pressure on the vertebrae and discs in your spine, leading to misalignments. These misalignments, or subluxations, can cause a range of symptoms, including the following:
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain
- Tension headaches
- Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)
Over time, poor spinal alignment can lead to chronic issues and limit your ability to move freely. Additionally, the more time you spend sitting, the less circulation your spine and muscles receive, making it harder for your body to heal and stay healthy.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Combat Sitting Disease
Chiropractic care focuses on correcting spinal misalignments and promoting overall health through natural, drug-free methods. At Bare Chiropractic, Dr. Thomas Keogh aims to help you counteract the effects of prolonged sitting by improving spinal health and enhancing mobility.
By aligning the spine, chiropractic adjustments can reduce tension and pressure on the nerves, alleviating pain caused by poor posture and sitting. It can also help correct postural imbalances caused by sitting. Regular adjustments and exercises may help you maintain better posture, preventing further strain on your back and neck.
Additionally, this care can restore joint function and flexibility, helping you move more freely and comfortably, even after long periods of sitting.
Break Free from Sitting Disease with Bare Chiropractic
Sitting Disease may be a common part of modern life, but you don’t have to let it take over your health. At Bare Chiropractic, we’re here to help you combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting with personalized chiropractic care. If you’re experiencing back pain, stiffness, or other issues related to a sedentary lifestyle, contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward better health and mobility.
Sources
Donnelly Michos, E. “Sitting Disease: How a Sedentary Lifestyle Affects Heart Health.” Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sitting-disease-how-a-sedentary-lifestyle-affects-heart-health
Huo, M., Ho, E., Kongsted, A., Patterson, T., Ferreira, P. “Association between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and the trajectory of low back pain.” The Spine Journal, 2023 Jul; 23 (7): 1037-1044. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36948275/
