Did you know that we are spending up to 80% of our days sitting? There seems to be an increasing amount of research directed at the problems caused by sitting for long periods of time. Unfortunately there doesn’t seem to be a way from getting around the fact that sitting for long periods of time has become a part of our modern existence. From early in life children sit at desks at school and slouch on the couch playing video games or texting. For most this continues into adulthood. The issue – The body simply isn’t built to sit all day.   Current research suggests that greater than 8 hours per day of sitting can cause lower back pain, neck and shoulder pain, headaches, fatigue, obesity and a variety of other health problems.

So…. What can we do to combat the ill effects of sitting? Below are a couple of tips to help minimise the risk of sitting.

• Ergonomic Desk Set Up: Most companies offer ergonomic work place set ups and it is a good idea to make sure that your work station is suitable for your size and posture.
• Standing Desks: Sanding desks are becoming more common and acceptable. These are a great investment and way to work without having to spend all day sitting down.
• Keep Moving: Make sure you keep moving through your work day. Make a point of getting up and going for a walk around the office or outside in your breaks or on a regular basis through the day. A regular gym or exercise regime is also vital for keeping healthy and a great way to combat the effects of sitting so make sure you fit some exercise in when you’re not at work.
• Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care can assist you to better manage your posture and look after your spine. Chiropractic adjustments can help with any areas of dysfunction in your spine caused by sitting. Chiropractors can also offer specific postural advice and stretches.

While sitting is an unavoidable part of daily life these days there are certainly many options for minimising the damage and keeping yourself fit and healthy. Try a couple of the tips above and see if you notice a difference.