5 Physical Symptoms of Sitting Too Much and How to Improve Employee Health

The Physical Symptoms of Sitting Too Much

According to the NHS, most adults in the UK spend around 9 hours sitting each day. Prolonged sitting is a common issue, especially in desk-bound roles, and it can lead to a range of physical symptoms that negatively impact employee health and productivity. While sitting is an unavoidable part of our working structure, there are initiatives that can be taken to mitigate its effects. Here are five key symptoms and solutions to help address them.

1. Back Pain and Spinal Issues 

   Prolonged sitting puts excessive pressure on the spine, leading to back pain and potential long-term spinal issues. This can decrease productivity and increase absenteeism.
   

2. Weight Gain and Metabolic Problems

   Extended periods of sitting slow down metabolism, leading to weight gain and a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels.

   
   

3. Muscle Weakness and Poor Posture 

   Sitting too much weakens muscles, particularly in the lower back, hips, and legs, leading to poor posture and increased susceptibility to injuries.

   
   

4. Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases

   Prolonged sitting is linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer due to poor circulation and the buildup of fatty acids in the blood vessels.

   
   

5. Inhibited Creative Thinking (H2)Secondary Keyword: Employee Health Sitting too much doesn’t just affect physical health; it can also inhibit creative thinking. When employees are sedentary for long periods, their ability to generate innovative ideas and solve problems creatively can be significantly reduced. For more on this topic, check out my previous article, Why Sitting Too Much Inhibits Creative Thinking and How to Combat It.

   
   

Office Chair Yoga to Combat the Effects of Sitting

To counteract the physical symptoms of sitting too much, incorporating movement throughout the day is essential. Chair yoga is an easy and accessible way for employees to stretch and strengthen their muscles without leaving their desks. Here’s a simple chair yoga flow that can help improve employee health:

1. Inhale, arch your back, lift your chest.

2. Exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin.

3. Inhale, lengthen spine; exhale, twist right, switch sides.

4. Inhale, reach arms overhead, stretch upward.

5. Exhale, bend elbows to 90 degrees, open chest.

6. Inhale, lean right; exhale, return, switch sides.

Improving Employee Health by adding movements

Sitting too much can have a significant impact on both the physical and mental health of employees. However, by being aware of these risks and implementing simple solutions like regular movement breaks and chair yoga, companies can improve employee health and wellbeing.