After a long day of sitting at the office, many people don’t want to hit the gym. Instead, they want to relax at home, and when the weekend arrives, they do the same. This pattern, called a sedentary lifestyle, may seem relaxing, but it leads to back pain, neck pain, and more. These can be chronic issues, and it’s important to understand when you need to seek treatment and how you can make lifestyle changes to avoid it.

The Negative Impact of a Sedentary Lifestyle

How Does It Affect Spinal Health?

When your body is inactive, it begins to deteriorate. Muscles atrophy, joints stiffen, and once your spine lacks proper support, it becomes more prone to injuries. This increases back pain and related issues. Sitting for long hours in front of a computer causes spinal pain from poor posture, and weight gain associated with a sedentary lifestyle adds additional stress on the musculoskeletal system. The effects extend into cardiovascular and nervous system health as well, which is why it’s important to make changes.

What Changes Should I Make?

Breaking a sedentary pattern is easier than you may think. Start at the office. Stand up and stretch regularly—roughly every 20 minutes—and take a stroll on your lunch break. If possible, bike to work. Try to get into the gym at least three times a week; if you can’t, practice basic, low-impact exercises like yoga at home. Even doing crunches during commercial breaks has a positive effect. If you need motivation, partner with a friend, and begin exploring new outdoor hobbies like gardening that will get you off the couch.

How Do I Deal With Existing Pain?

As you make lifestyle changes, you’ll notice a reduction in pain. If neck or back pain is a constant problem, see a chiropractor. They will diagnose the issue and create a personalized treatment plan to help you recover. Spinal adjustments, massage, and other in-office techniques will also lead to pain relief. This is a good time to speak with them about quitting bad habits and working toward a healthier lifestyle.

For 32 years, residents of Archdale, NC, have turned to Stroud Chiropractic Clinic for spinal care and pain relief. Their skilled team treats back pain, arthritis, injuries related to auto accidents, and more. Dr. Stroud has previously received the Best Chiropractor in the Southern Triad award for his services. Visit them online to explore their practice, and call (336) 434-2107 to schedule a consultation. You can also connect on Facebook for news and health care advice.