The health risks of a sedentary work life and how to reverse them

Technology is moving forward at a fast pace, but it would appear that we humans are not! We are now significantly more sedentary than previous generations, and this is largely down to the shift from physically demanding manual labour to more office-based work.

If ever there was a time to think seriously about how this sedentary behaviour could be affecting your health, it’s this month because…

• 3rd – 7th October is Back Care Awareness Week
• 4th October is Improve Your Office Day
• 6th – 10th October is International Week of Happiness at Work
• 16th October is World Spine Day
• October is National Ergonomics Month

Oh, and 27th October is Cranky Co Workers Day! So, take this as your sign to make improvements in your office this month. The Occupational Health experts at YourGP discuss how…

Sitting on the job

The latest studies show office workers spend between four and nine hours sitting at their desk every day. That’s a huge amount of physical inactivity.

Prolonged periods of sitting have been shown to increase the risk of musculoskeletal issues. In fact, one of the most common work-related issues we treat here at YourGP’s Occupational Health clinic is not injuries from lifting heavy objects, but muscle pain from sitting at a desk all day every day.

What’s more, sedentary behaviour in the office can slow the metabolism, increasing the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Workplace movers and shakers

If you’re serious about your health, it’s time to think seriously about your work set-up. Before you panic, no one is saying you need to quit your office job! Instead, we’ve got five simple suggestions that could make all the difference:

1. Take regular breaks: It’s important to stand up and move around for at least five minutes every half an hour.
2. Set an alarm: We all have moments where we’re so involved in a work task that we don’t realise the time passing by. That’s why it can be helpful to set an alarm to remind you to get up and get moving.
3. Move whenever and wherever you can: Take meetings out of the boardroom and head for a walk-and-talk session outside instead. Walk while you’re on the phone, or head over to your colleague’s desk to speak in person, rather than calling them.
4. Stand up on the job: Consider getting an adjustable standing desk that you could raise for at least part of the working day.
5. Pay attention to your posture: It’s important that your chair provides adequate support when you are sitting down. Invest in an ergonomically-designed chair and ensure it is comfortable and supportive.

Speak to the Occupational Health experts at YourGP

If you’re interested in finding out more about ways to protect the health and wellbeing of your team, speak to the experts at YourGP about our wide range of corporate and occupational healthcare services. We’d be happy to tailor a package to your unique business needs. Simply call 0131 381 0322 or email occhealth@your.gp to make an appointment.