Among the many habitual sitting postures, cross-legged (i.e., cross-legged together) seems to be a generally accepted posture. Whether in the office or at home, this sitting position is often considered a comfortable and relaxed posture. However, it may harbor some health risks that should not be overlooked. This article will reveal the potential harms of sitting cross-legged and provide some advice to help you maintain a healthier sitting posture.
Circulatory problems: Obstruction of blood flow to the legs
When you sit cross-legged, it can compress the blood vessels in your legs, causing poor blood circulation. This condition can cause problems such as numbness in the legs, varicose veins, etc. Staying in this position for long periods of time, especially if you are sedentary, may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, which is a serious health problem.
Pelvic and spine problems: Asymmetrical posture affects spine health
Sitting cross-legged leads to asymmetry in the posture of the pelvis and spine, leaving our spine in a twisted state for long periods of time. This not only increases the burden on the lumbar spine and spine, but can also lead to scoliosis and other related problems such as neck and back pain.
Static muscle fatigue: Increases stress on the muscles of the lower body
Sitting cross-legged for long periods of time can cause the muscles in the legs and hips to be in a state of static tension for a long time. This static muscle tension can lead to muscle fatigue, stiffness, and increased stress on muscle groups in the lower extremities. This not only affects the flexibility and elasticity of the muscles, but also can increase the burden on the joints of the lower limbs.
Joint problems: Increased risk of knee and hip injuries
Sitting cross-legged with your knees and hips in an unnatural position can increase the risk of wear and tear and injury to these joints. Especially for people who already have joint problems or pain, sitting cross-legged for long periods of time may worsen symptoms and accelerate the process of joint wear and tear.
How to improve your sitting posture and reduce health risks
- Choose the right chair and sitting position: Choose a chair that supports your waist and provides adequate support to maintain the natural curve of your spine.
- Regular activity and rest: Stand up and move every once in a while to stretch your body and improve blood circulation.
- Practice proper sitting: Keep your feet flat on the ground, knees slightly bent, keep your spine straight, and try to avoid sitting cross-legged for long periods of time.
- Use footpads or cushions: Use footpads or cushions on your seat to help maintain a comfortable and correct sitting position.
epilogue
Sitting cross-legged may seem comfortable, but it can lead to a range of health problems, including impaired circulation, poor posture of the spine, muscle fatigue and joint problems. In order to reduce these health risks, we should always pay attention to maintaining a correct sitting posture and develop good habits to protect our physical health.
Remind the majority of netizens to pay attention to health from the sitting posture and avoid the health risks caused by sitting cross-legged!