Practical Tips
Low Back Pain Prevention Part 2: Minimize Prolonged Sitting
Posted July 18, 2023
Sitting for prolonged periods can be detrimental to your spine health. Taking a break from sitting can help you protect your spine and reduce the risk of injury. Small but valuable changes like this can go a long way in maintaining a healthy back.
It’s recommended not to sit longer than 30 minutes at one time without getting up for a few seconds to unload your spine. This break allows your spinal discs to rehydrate after the water loss that occurs while sitting. If you fail to take these breaks, your discs won't receive the necessary hydration until you go to bed, leaving them more susceptible to injury. Sitting for just 50 minutes can cause the inner disc material—called the nucleus—to start to migrate through the cartilage rings that contain it leading to a disc herniation.
To avoid the negative effects of prolonged sitting, consider using a standing desk whenever possible. Alternating between sitting and standing can help alleviate the strain on your spine and reduce the risk of disc herniation. Even small changes like this can make a significant difference in your spinal health.