The Pros and Cons of a Standing Desk

After gaining a surge in popularity in recent years, standing desks are starting to become a common occurrence in offices, and they look like they are here to stay for the foreseeable future. However, although they have become popular due to their alleged health benefits, there are also risks that you need to be aware of before investing in one. If you are considering whether standing desks may be of an advantage to you, or a professional like those at South Miami chiropractor clinic SnapCrack has recommended one, here is everything that you should know about them.

What are the pros?

• The major advantage which preceded their rise in popularity is the fact that standing desks can help to combat the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. With more people now working from home and in offices, this has led to people sitting for far longer than the couple of hours a day that is healthy. However, standing desks can help you to burn calories and to look after your organs even while you are working.
• One of the common health problems in offices is lower back and neck pain, and poor posture. Both of these issues are caused by the way that you sit at a desk, with many people slouching. This is especially the case if your desk has not been set up properly with the correct ergonomics. However, having a standing desk in your office can increase your blood flow, allow you to stretch, and allow you to use muscles that would otherwise become stiff and cramped and cause you pain. It can also help to relieve pressure on the nervous system.

What are the cons?

• There is a reason why many people do not stand as often as they should, and this is because it can be incredibly uncomfortable for them. Standing for long periods of time, while beneficial for some parts of your body, can cause you to have aching legs and sore feet, much like if you have been heading out on a hike. However, these symptoms often wear off once your body becomes used to standing for an extended period.
• What’s more, the fatigue that can occur from standing up for long periods can have the reverse effect, and can actually leave you with joint and back pain, as well as swelling in your legs. Not only this, but it can lead to bad posture if your computer and desk are not adjusted for your height or your individual way of standing or working. If this occurs, you should try alternating between standing or sitting, and speak to a medical professional or chiropractor if this progresses.

The major problem with standing desks is that there has not been enough research in order to determine whether the benefits of standing desks outweigh the cons. If you are thinking of introducing a standing desk to your office, you should speak to a professional at SnapCrack, a walk-in chiropractor in South Miami, who will be able to advise you whether they may be an apt solution for your medical problem.