The Perils of Sitting

Over the years we’ve seen a steady shift in our workforce patterns from one of predominately working in the fields and factories to one of sitting in an office toiling away on our computers and talking on our phones. That’s the reality of the 21^st century, and unfortunately along with that we’ve also seen an increase in the incidence of back pain and associated injuries.

Many researchers put this down to one common activity we all do far too often – SITTING!

Our bodies are not designed to sit for long periods of time. We are made to be active, to move around. You can almost guarantee that anyone who sits for long periods of time will experience pain to their neck, shoulders and back.  Repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome are also becoming more common and about 10 % of keyboard users experience wrist pain or discomfort.  It’s funny but even as I sit here typing this article I can feel my neck muscles start to tighten and my shoulders begin to feel heavy!

If we maintain a sedentary lifestyle, our bodies are going to start whinging. You have to move!  When your muscles contract through movement, you assist blood to flow through the body. The muscles act like a pump circulating blood to the brain and the rest of the body.  Better circulation means better health. If we fail to move for long periods, then certain postural muscles like our shoulder muscles will be overworked. These muscles will become short and tight where as other muscles like our Gluteals and our abdominals will become weak.

How do we avoid such injuries and discomfort? Current thinking says that for every hour we spend at the computer you should take a ten minute break. Do something active to release the built up tension in your body. Some self massage or stretch and release exercises are recommended, as is going for a short walk away from your work station. Done regularly these measures will not only discharge tension but also help to increase mental clarity and keep your mind and body relaxed throughout the working day.

So whenever you get the chance, try and enjoy a short break from your desk, the computer, and the phone. Get up, move around and stretch.

By Peter from Knead Massage

Tagged as: blood flow, Massage, movement, muscle pump, stretching