To Sit or Not to Sit? That is the Question! Many people believe that sitting is the “new smoking�! How much sitting and standing is too much? Do I require a sit-to-stand workstation in order to improve my health? This article summarizes some of the latest research on this topic, and my clinical opinion following more than 25 years of ergonomic consulting.
JANE SIMMONS
PRESIDENT/OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, INTEGRATED OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES (IOHS)
There are many documented health risks associated with prolonged sitting, such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, weight gain, and neck/back pain. On the other side, there are health risks linked to prolonged standing as well, such as fatigue, varicose veins, and increased foot and/or back pain. Standing workstations are often suggested for a reception or customer service counter so employees are able to work at eye level with their clients. Employees with decreased sitting tolerances are also provided with similar workstations.
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More recently, employees are requesting sit-to-stand workstations to prevent risk of injury, as many believe it will alleviate the pain that they are experiencing. However, it has not been conclusively determined that sit to stand workstations will improve productivity, or reduce the risk of any of the above noted health conditions. While back pain is reported to decrease in some studies, in other instances, these workstations can increase back pain if used improperly. As well, the best sit-tostand ratio has not yet been established, and it appears to be very individualized. Many people purchase workstations that are height adjustable and do not use them, nor are they educated about the risks, or how to properly use them. What we have found clinically, which is also supported by the research, is that we need to move more. We are too sedentary in work and everyday living, and this is contributing to our poor health. We need to alternate between sitting, standing, and movement (such as walking) more than what we are currently doing! We also need proper ergonomic set-up when involved with prolonged sitting or standing tasks. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of our posture, to breathe effectively, and to relax muscles not needed for the tasks that we are performing. We also need to take more micropauses or short breaks involving movement of the body to increase blood circulation, versus alternating between static postures. Some solutions are to walk to speak with co-workers versus sending an email, stand or walk on the spot when talking on the phone, go to the printer after each document is printed versus batch printing, walk during breaks versus sitting at a workstation or in a lunch room, and finally, move more in your home life as well if you wish to reduce the health risks associated with stationary, static postures.
FALL: 2018
