A sedentary lifestyle, characterized by prolonged sitting or lying down and insufficient physical activity, is deemed unhealthy due to its link with numerous health hazards such as obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, and even psychological conditions like depression and anxiety.
However, did you know that standing too long is not a good habit? Check out the review in the following article.
Health risks due to habits standing too long
Some people may be forced to work in a standing position for too long, for example, in the food service industry, manufacturing, or retail industry. This habit of standing for long periods can also cause several health problems, including:
Back pain
Standing or walking generally can increase pressure on the spine, especially in the lower back or lumbar region. This can cause the lower back muscles to work harder to support the body, which can cause muscle tension or spasms.
Lower back muscle tension can cause lower back pain or lower back pain. Other factors that can worsen this muscle tension are poor posture, fatigue, lack of rest, or lack of balanced physical activity.
Pain in the legs
Leg pain usually occurs after standing too long when the vein valves malfunction. As a result, blood and fluid in the blood vessels (especially in the lower legs) will accumulate. This fluid buildup causes symptoms such as pain, swelling, heaviness, cramps, or a burning sensation in the feet or legs. These symptoms often improve when you elevate your legs or rest them.
Varicose veins
Standing too long also disrupts blood flow to the legs, increasing the risk of varicose veins. Varicose veins are swollen veins, usually in the feet or lower legs.
Continuous pressure from standing too long on the blood vessels can cause the vein valves to malfunction. This causes blood to flow backward and build up in the veins, which can cause swelling and widening of the veins or varicose veins.
Read more: 5 Myths About Varises You Need To Know
Stiff neck muscles
Standing for too long can cause neck muscle stiffness. Neck muscle stiffness occurs when there is additional pressure on the neck muscles due to efforts to keep the head and neck stable.
Neck muscle stiffness is usually accompanied by other symptoms, including pain, headaches, and even disturbances in neck movement, which can affect daily comfort.
Swelling of the feet
Another effect of standing for too long is swelling in the legs. Swelling can occur as a gravitational effect, which causes fluid to collect in the lower part of the body. In addition, standing for too long can increase pressure, interfering with normal blood flow and, in turn, causing fluid buildup and more severe swelling.
Tips for individuals who frequently stand for prolonged periods
Working in a standing position for long periods may not always be avoidable. However, you must reduce threatening health risks to keep your body comfortable. Here are tips for those who usually work in a standing position for a long time:
- Rotate work positions to help reduce stress on the body and reduce the risk of muscle strain and injury
- Avoid working positions such as bending over or twisting the body in extreme ways, which can affect body posture
- Adjust work speed to prevent excessive fatigue
- Have sufficient rest time
- Use appropriate and comfortable footwear to reduce the risk of injury
Read more: These Are The Benefits And Risks Of Running Without Footwear For Health
If you've tried all the suggested remedies but still experience discomfort in the form of leg and back pain, swelling, or neck stiffness, it's important to seek the advice of a healthcare provider. Your doctor can diagnose your symptoms and suggest the appropriate treatment.
Utilize the health consultation service offered through the Ai Care app, available on both the App Store and Play Store, particularly if you have inquiries or concerns regarding additional symptoms.
Want to know more information about other diseases? Click here!
- dr. Yuliana Inosensia
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