Treating Back Pain Caused by Sitting Too Much

Our lives involve a whole lot of sitting, whether it’s at a desk for eight or more hours each day, commuting into the city, or driving kids to appointments and activities. We all know that too much sitting isn’t good for our backs and our overall health, but it’s often unavoidable in today’s world. Fortunately, there are tips and treatments for dealing with sitting’s impact on our musculoskeletal system.

Why Does My Back Hurt More When Sitting?

Sitting for prolonged periods can put a strain on your back, especially when you have bad posture. Slouching or hunching can strain back muscles, compress spinal discs, and overstretch spinal ligaments, causing pain in the back, shoulders, and neck.

Is It Normal for Your Back to Hurt After Sitting Too Long?

It’s common to experience lower back pain and other discomforts after sitting too long, especially for individuals with desk jobs or those who drive or ride in a vehicle for long periods of time. While it’s a common occurrence, this pain shouldn’t be considered “normal,” and there are several ways you can reduce or eliminate it.

What Kind of Back Pain Is Worse with Sitting?

In addition to causing new back and neck issues, sitting can aggravate existing back pain from bulging or herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, sacral tumors, and other conditions of the musculoskeletal system.

How Can I Reverse the Effects of Sitting Too Long?

If you’re frequently sitting for extended periods, here are some actionable steps to help reverse the effects:

• Take Regular Breaks: Stand, stretch, and move around for at least a few minutes every hour.

• Prioritize Ergonomics: Practice good posture by sitting upright, aligning your spine, and relaxing your shoulders. An ergonomic chair or lumbar cushion can offer additional support.

• Strengthen Key Muscles: A strong core is essential for maintaining good posture. Exercises targeting your abdominal and lower back muscles can help, along with hip stretches to counteract tightness.

• Alternate Ice and Heat: Use ice packs to reduce inflammation and heat to relax tense muscles if your back or neck is sore. If the pain persists, chiropractic care can make a significant difference.

Can the Graston Technique® Help with Lower Back Pain?

The Graston Technique® uses specialized stainless steel tools to locate and break up scar tissue and fascial adhesions. Graston also releases muscles that become knotted from sitting too long, allowing for healthy blood flow, reduced inflammation, and faster healing.  

At East Bay Chiropractic Wellness, Dr. Marmorale specializes in the Graston Technique® as well as traditional chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, and supplements like nutraMetrix®.

Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment

East Bay Chiropractic Wellness has provided a broad range of chiropractic services to Long Island residents for more than 35 years. If you find your back aching after too many hours of sitting, we can help you feel your best with the Graston Technique®, adjustments, massage, and other chiropractic techniques and advice. Contact our office to learn more or to schedule an appointment.