A new study from the University of Turku, led by Jooa Norha, showed how leading a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate back discomfort. These days, working from home is becoming the norm, so we wind up slouching through most of the day while seated in our recliners or on the couch using our laptops. This is a hazardous habit and can have long-term impacts on health. Reducing sitting time can benefit people, particularly those who are sedentary and overweight.
64 adults, aged 40 to 65, who were overweight or obese and had metabolic syndrome, i.e. a confluence of illnesses that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, was the study’s target population.
The participants were split up into two groups, with one being instructed to minimize their sitting time and incorporate light exercise into their daily routine, and the other being instructed to continue with their regular schedule.
The Effect of Light Exercise on Back Pain
The individuals were monitored for six months; those who included modest exercise in their routine had stable back pain, but the inactive group had a significant increase in the intensity of back pain. As a result, the study indicated that minimizing inactivity can greatly improve back pain.
In a press release, Jooa Norha, a PhD researcher and physiotherapist, advised reducing sitting time and substituting light exercise, like walking or brisk exercise, for sitting while experiencing back discomfort symptoms. Concerns over the effects of spending more time sitting down or engaging in screen-based recreational activities are growing among the public. The study serves as a reminder to engage in little exercise and limit sitting in order to prevent persistent back pain and other health problems.
