17 Dec 2023
Are Standing Desks Good for You? Exploring the Health Benefits
Standing vs. Sitting: The Great Debate
The first question on everyone’s mind is whether standing desks is really better for you than sitting? It’s a topic that has garnered attention from health-conscious individuals and professionals alike. Here at Kasa Chiropractic, we believe in a holistic approach to well-being, and that includes evaluating the impact of our everyday choices on our health.
Why Choose a Standing Desk?
One key driver behind the surge in standing desk popularity is the sedentary nature of many modern office jobs. Prolonged sitting has been linked to various health issues, including metabolic risks, diabetes, heart disease, and even increased mortality rates. So, what makes standing desks appealing? They have the potential to counteract the adverse effects of extended sitting, promote better posture, and contribute to overall well-being.
What Research Tells Us
While the research on standing desks is still evolving, some promising findings are worth mentioning. Studies have shown that using a standing desk can burn an additional 50 calories per hour compared to sitting. This seemingly small change can add up to significant calorie expenditure over a week.
Moreover, standing desks are associated with increased energy levels, improved concentration, reduced headaches, and even assisting in quitting smoking, according to anecdotal reports from office users.
The Kasa Chiropractic Perspective
Now, you might be wondering why the team at Kasa Chiropractic has adopted standing desks. Our Chiropractic Assistants (CAs) are integral to the healing process of our patients. Unlike traditional receptionists, they are actively engaged in patient care. We’ve chosen standing desks to enable them to move freely, greet patients warmly, and assist them promptly. Being on their feet fosters a proactive approach and helps them stay one step ahead. Plus, they look great and add a sleek touch to our reception area!
Our CAs have reported feeling more energetic throughout the day and experiencing less physical discomfort. They’ve found that patients approach them more comfortably, and tasks away from the desk are easier to handle. By not remaining stationary all day, they stimulate core and leg muscles while keeping their nervous systems active—contributing to enhanced comfort and vitality.
In Conclusion
In our pursuit of a healthier, more productive work environment, we’ve introduced standing desks to our clinic. The evidence, while not conclusive, suggests that standing desks offer several potential health benefits, such as increased calorie burning, improved focus, and reduced discomfort. We believe that every positive change contributes to better overall well-being, aligning with our commitment to chiropractic care.
So, if you’ve been contemplating whether standing desks are right for you, consider giving them a try. After all, if they were good enough for historical figures like Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, and Benjamin Franklin, they might just be good enough for you and us.
References:
- “Calorie burner: How much better is standing up than sitting?” – BBC News. 2013-10-16.
- Healy, G. N. et al. 2008. “Breaks in sedentary time: beneficial associations with metabolic risk.” Diabetes Care 31: 661-666.
- Mayo Clinic – Frequently Asked Questions About Sitting
- “Sitting time and mortality from all causes” – Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009 – PubMed – NCBI. Retrieved 2014-06-30.
