What causes back pain after sitting for a long time?
Disease description:
I am an office worker who sits for long periods each day. Recently, my back has started to hurt and feel stiff after sitting for extended periods, and moving around provides slight relief. What could be causing this? Is it due to improper sitting posture?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Prolonged sitting without movement can compress the blood vessels and nerves in the lower limbs, impairing blood circulation and consequently causing back pain. At the same time, maintaining a fixed seated posture for extended periods keeps the back muscles in a tense state, leading to muscle strain and pain.
Generally, back pain caused by prolonged sitting may be related to the following factors:
1. Prolonged sitting: Extended sitting can impair circulation, reducing oxygen and nutrients delivered to the muscles, thereby intensifying pain sensations. It may also lead to uneven pressure distribution on the spine, increasing the risk of disc herniation or degenerative diseases.
2. Back muscle strain: Maintaining a fixed seated posture for long periods causes continuous tension in the back muscles, resulting in muscle strain and pain.
It is recommended to relieve pressure and pain on the back muscles by standing or walking periodically, performing stretching exercises, improving sitting posture, and using chairs with good support. Medically, back pain caused by prolonged sitting may lead to musculoskeletal, neurological, and circulatory system problems. Therefore, in cases of persistent back pain, in addition to lifestyle adjustments, it may be necessary to visit a reputable hospital for medical evaluation.
