Sitting on a yoga ball? Using a standing desk? These two trends are catching on in the workplace. Are they really that great for your back?

Research indicates that sitting too long can be bad for your back and your overall health, according to Carolinas HealthCare System’s Carolinas Rehabilitation expert Michael Agnone, PT. It’s important to get up and move throughout the day.

Some workplaces are trading in traditional sitting desks for a standing desk environment. However, after the first month of use, most people realize they do not want to stand all day and their use of standing desks quickly declines. Agnone says standing too long (more than two hours) can increase back and foot pain.

Research shows that standing is also more tiring, increases the risk of varicose veins, and may increase heart disease and overuse of the wrist and neck. The solution? Somewhere in the middle. Agnone recommends these easy fixes:

  • If you sit, stand up every 20 to 30 minutes. Make a phone call while standing or walk to your co-worker’s desk to ask a question in person.
  • If standing to work, walk around periodically and sit with efficient posture as needed.
  • Adjust your keyboard and computer monitor to the proper height, whether sitting or standing.

What about that yoga ball as an office chair? According to Agnone, research shows no real health benefits from sitting on an exercise ball. Unfortunately, most people find it challenging to maintain proper posture and tend to slump. Again, aim to stand up every 20 to 30 minutes if you’re concerned about prolonged sitting.

If you still experience back pain after taking these easy steps, call 704-863-HURT to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified physicians. Our doctors will utilize a comprehensive care approach to find out the cause of your back pain and the best treatment options for you. Our eight Sports Medicine and Injury Care centers are conveniently located throughout the Charlotte community and feature 24-hour scheduling.

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An NATA-certified athletic trainer and board-certified orthopedic physical therapy specialist, Michael Agnone, PT, is the center manager of Randolph Road and Mt. Island Lake outpatient clinics for Carolinas Rehabilitation and coordinates the physical therapy sports medicine program. Agnone also works with Myers Park High School and coordinates physical therapy outreach with local high schools and athletic trainers.