Many people spend most of their time in a seated position, whether it's due to office work or home computer use. The effects of poor seated posture can cause a range of physical problems. In fact, according to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, employees who work in a seated position often report more varicose veins, stiff necks and back pain than those who perform heavy or manual labor.
Back Pain
One of the most detrimental and widespread effects of poor seated posture is back pain. According to licensed massage practitioner Barbara Frye in her book, "Body Mechanics for Manual Therapists: A Functional Approach to Self-Care," low back pain is a particularly common complaint resulting from poor sitting posture. Most people assume a slumped over, rounded position when seated, causing stiff muscles and the overworking of certain muscle groups to keep the back stabilized. Sitting for too lung in one position or keeping your legs crossed can potentially exacerbate back pain while sitting. If you must sit for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to change positions or get up and move around for a few minutes every hour or so.
Stiff Neck
Stiff necks and shoulders are often caused by poor seated posture. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, sitting for a long period of time causes your neck muscles to remain in a certain position in order to keep your head upright, causing tension and strain. This fixed position can squeeze the blood vessels, reducing blood supply to your neck muscles, resulting in pain, an increased risk of fatigue and a higher chance of injury. Sitting with your neck slumped or leaning forward puts an excessive strain on your shoulder muscles as well, causing pain, tension and pulling on the muscles of your spine.
Varicose Veins
A poor seated posture affects your blood circulation. Varicose veins are the result of insufficient blood flow, often caused when you remain in a seated position for an extended period of time. Increased pressure on the backs of the thighs can also cause varicose veins. Your chance of developing varicose veins is much higher if you maintain a poor posture for a long period of time without getting up to move around, or if you sit with your legs crossed.
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