SIT/STAND?

One great invention we’re seeing more often is the Sit/Stand Desk.

We all know that sitting for an entire work day can be bad for your health/posture; that is why the sit/ stand desk was invented.

More and more patients are telling us they’ve bought one for themselves since they’ve been working from home or that their office has installed those types of desks. Although it is great news that you may have a standing desk, it’s important to know how to use it.

Gradually easing yourself into standing more often is the way to go—and not go from sitting all the time to standing too long. A common situation I’ve heard is patients get to work and stand for 3-hours straight before sitting for most of the day, then standing for 1 to 2 hours at the end of the day. If your body isn’t ready to make such a drastic change, that may cause other issues such as low-back, leg, or foot pain.

The key to using a sit/stand desk is variability. The body likes movement and not being stuck

SIT/STAND?

HOW TO TRANSITION

Dr. Aleem Remtulla

in one position for too long—sitting too much or standing too much.

Therefore, changing positions often will be beneficial for the body.

A good way to start (if you’ve never used that type of desk before) is to stand for 15 mins after 45 to 60 minutes of sitting. It is important to get up and walk around or change positions every hour.

Starting the first week with 15-minute intervals of standing every hour is the most reasonable way to begin. As your body gets used to the change, try increasing the amount of time you are standing. Eventually, the ideal scenario would have you sitting for 30 minutes, then standing for 30 minutes.

Last, you can include some simple range-of-motion movements or stretching during the time you’re standing.

Hope that information helps you manage the transition to your new desk!

If you are still having problems with pain and discomfort in your neck, shoulders, arms, or your lower back/hips, please seek the assistance of a professional to help with your postural issues, relieve stress on overworked joints and muscles, and teach you strategies to manage the day. s Dr. Aleem Remtulla, DC, and the FIH team are are located in Lonsdale Quay. www.foundationforintegratedhealth.com.