Leaving on a Jet Plane: The Dangers of Sitting Too Long

As we enter the summer season, many people will be taking long car, train, or plane rides. However, did you ever think about what those rides could be doing to your body? Sitting for long periods of time can cause numerous health issues and, according to the World Health Organization, is the fourth leading risk factor for death, but there are ways of reducing these chances.

Sitting too much or for too extended a period of time can cause many health issues effecting many areas of the body. The most commonly discussed issues involve the heart such as sluggish blood flow and less muscle burn causing a more easily clogged heart, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and a two times more likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease. An overproduction of insulin can cause pancreatic issues such as diabetes due to a decline in insulin response within the muscles. Sitting for extended periods of time can also cause a higher risk of colon, breast and endometrial cancers for reasons that are unclear but could be related to excessive cell growth or a decrease in antioxidants, which are often created through movement, which prevent the killing cell damaging (often cancer causing) free radicals. Some muscular issues caused by excessive sitting include mushy abs due to slouching which can cause hyperlordosis due to weakened abs and tightened back muscles, tight hips due to lack of mobility which often cause falls in your elderly years, and softened glutes which can cause stability and stride issues as well as the higher potential for sciatica. Some leg disorders that can occur include weakened bones due to lack of weight bearing activities such as walking and running, as well as poor circulation in the legs causing deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins and swollen ankles. Some back issues that can occur include spinal injuries due to weakened activity causing such issues as degenerative disc disorders or herniated discs. Some other issues can cause foggy brain which can lead to memory loss due to lowered blood circulation to the brain, neck issues as you strain it to work at the computer, or sore shoulders and back due to slouching and rounded shoulder syndrome which can cause tight pecs that push on the heart and lungs. I do not know about you, but none of these conditions are ones that I want to create in my body, so what can you do to change it?

There are many things you can do to prevent these issues. The first and easiest way to prevent issues is to get up and either stand or walk at least ten minutes of every hour. This could be just standing at your desk while talking on the phone or walking to the water cooler to get a drink. This helps build muscles and create range of motion. Second, exercising important to help create better circulation such as taking a half hour walk every morning. Another thing that one can do is take yoga or pilates which can create better range of motion and help calm ones breathing. Another important way to prevent these issues is, obviously massage. With a great massage, one can increase circulation, heal organs and create better range of motion while taking care of the muscles. One of my clients who does a lot of sitting due to being an IT specialist, has told me that my massage has actually saved his life due to being able to move and breathe again. There are many other things that can be done as well but these are some of the easiest resolutions. Therefore, while flying, traveling or doing any other type of extended sitting, remember to do some of these easy remedies to lead a longer, fuller, healthier life.

By Jodi Schulman, LMT, M.Ed

Galaxy Massage

786-566-0391

info@galaxymassage.com