People in New Jersey may be aware of the discomfort that comes from sitting at a desk in front of a computer all day. Even with an ergonomic computer keyboard and desk chair, an office worker may be at risk for injuries and long-term complications if other factors are not considered and compensated for. According to the Washington Post, a person who sits all day has a higher chance of heart disease, muscle and bone disorders, poor brain function and some types of cancer, in addition to spinal damage.
Proper posture may help, but gluteal, hip and abdominal muscles are not used while a person is sitting, and this allows them to degenerate. Without strength in these regions, stability, mobility and range of motion are impaired. Circulation in the legs is also negatively affected by long sessions in a chair, and this can lead to blood clots. When clots develop in the lower limbs, these may travel up the veins to the heart and lungs, putting a person at risk for stroke or heart attack.
Muscles that do not get enough activity cause many issues, including sluggish blood flow, insulin resistance and a lack of natural antioxidants. People with these health problems are more likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer.
The Mayo Clinic warns that a single daily exercise session is not likely to reduce these serious health risks for people sitting at a desk for hours at a time. Instead, regular movement, such as standing, stretching and walking around, should be used to interrupt periods of sitting throughout the day. This allows body functions to continue naturally and improves overall health.