Sedentary lifestyle - symptoms, ailments and health consequences

The number of people complaining of back pain is growing exponentially. It's no secret why. Society is increasingly leaning towards a sedentary lifestyle. This applies to young people, working professionals, and the elderly alike. Our daily routines are becoming increasingly stagnant, and this can have serious consequences for our health. Back pain is just the tip of the iceberg of ailments we will face in the future. 

The obvious solution to maintaining full physical and mental fitness for years to come is exercise. But are we aware of its importance and the potential consequences? I'll answer these questions in the following article. 

Hypokinesia, a consequence of a sedentary lifestyle

Industrial society brings with it convenience, but also health challenges. Hypokinesia, or insufficient physical activity, has become our modern enemy. Spending most of our time sitting, for example, at work, can trigger a cascade of negative effects on the body. From the circulatory system to the musculoskeletal system, hypokinesia has far-reaching consequences.

How does sitting too long affect the circulatory and respiratory systems?

Prolonged sitting leads to chest stiffness and reduced breathing rate. Insufficient oxygen delivery to the lungs affects blood circulation and oxygen distribution to tissues. This, in turn, hinders nutrient delivery and toxin removal. The effects of this process can range from fatigue to serious cardiovascular disease.

The body needs movement

Remaining in one sitting position for long periods, whether at work or relaxing with your favorite TV show after returning home, poses a serious risk to joints and muscles. These crucial components of the musculoskeletal system cannot remain passive for long periods, as this can lead to numerous problems. Limiting the natural range of motion in joints leads to shrinkage of joint capsules and shortening of muscles. This, in turn, leads to a loss of flexibility and muscle strength, and increases the risk of injury. It becomes increasingly difficult to maintain proper posture and perform daily activities.

Hypokinesia and its effects on the spine

Let's examine the impact of hypokinesia on the spine. Prolonged sitting can lead to dehydration of the intervertebral discs, causing them to lose their shock-absorbing properties. This results in reduced flexibility and increased fragility of these structures. Prolonged sitting can ultimately lead to disc herniation, or damage to the intervertebral discs. Symptoms range from back pain to numbness in the limbs.

Exercise as medicine and the key to health

Exercise isn't just a benefit, it's a necessity. Like medicine, it must be properly dosed. I encourage you to incorporate physical activity into your life to maintain health and fitness. Building physical fitness and muscle strength in your youth and adulthood can help you avoid many health problems. If you've been sedentary for a long time, it's never too late to start taking care of your body. Exercise, as medicine and the key to health, is invaluable, especially for people who spend most of their time sedentary. Regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, which are often the result of a lack of exercise. Research confirms that even short but regular exercise sessions can bring long-term health benefits, regardless of age or previous lifestyle.

Let's remember that exercise is the key to health. Let this be the motivation to engage in daily physical activity that will allow us to enjoy full fitness at every stage of life. 

Fabian Burakowski, M.A.
Physiotherapist, head of the rehabilitation department at Luxmed Medical Center

sources:
Schmid, Daniela, and G. Colditz. “Sedentary behavior increases the risk of certain cancers.” Journal of the National Cancer Institute 106.7 (2014).

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