Most people spend more time sitting each day than they realize. This is especially true for older adults and those living with mobility challenges or chronic pain. Think about all the wonderfully relaxing things we do while sitting. We’re talking about watching television, reading and enjoying meals, just to name a few.
Simply put, sitting is a major part of daily life. Unfortunately, sitting improperly or using an uncomfortable chair can contribute to a surprising number of health issues. At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we frequently meet clients who are unaware that their chairs are directly influencing their comfort, posture and overall mobility. Let’s explore the consequences of poor sitting posture and unsuitable seating, shall we?
Increased back and neck pain.
When a chair lacks adequate support, people naturally begin to slouch or lean forward. Over time, this places stress on the spine, muscles and ligaments. Older adults, in particular, may notice persistent lower-back pain, stiffness in the upper back and neck and even tension headaches.
A chair that is too deep, too soft or angled incorrectly often forces the pelvis to tilt backward. This puts additional strain on the spine. For those already dealing with arthritis, muscle weakness or age-related changes, this strain accumulates quickly. As well, for those who work from home, improper sitting can create significant pain.
“Often when we sit at a table or desk that isn’t set up properly, our neck comes forward and our shoulders can become rounded as we start to slouch,” points out Sharon Gabison of Toronto’s Ace Physio, “This poor posture can result in strained and tight muscles. This can lead to headaches, eye strain, sore neck, shoulders and low back pain.”
Joint stiffness and reduced mobility.
Sitting for prolonged periods in an ill-fitting chair can also affect joint mobility. When hips and knees remain bent for too long, stiffness and soreness can develop. This is a particular problem for people living with arthritis or recovering from surgery. A chair that doesn’t promote good posture or allow for regular movement can make it even harder to stand, walk or shift positions. For seniors, this cycle of stiffness can lead to a decline in mobility and confidence.
According to Dr. Scott Wilson of Physiomed, poor sitting routines can also lead to weakened muscles. “Sitting too much can lead to a weakening and deterioration in the muscles of our lower body, especially our quads, hamstrings and glutes,” he writes, “These very large muscle groups are responsible for helping us stand, walk and keep our balance and weakness in these can lead to mobility issues and an increased risk of falling.”
Poor circulation and leg swelling.
A chair that is too high, too low or lacking proper leg support can restrict blood flow. This can lead to swelling in the legs and feet. Many individuals experience numbness or tingling when seated in poorly designed chairs for long periods. Restricted circulation also increases the risk of developing varicose veins or pressure sores. This is particularly the case for those with reduced sensation or limited mobility. When blood flow is compromised, the body tires more easily, contributing to fatigue and discomfort.
“When we sit, the blood supply to our lower legs is inhibited,” affirms Dr. Wilson, “While our bodies can adapt to this problem in the short term, sitting for extended periods over days, weeks, or even years can lead to serious vascular issues. Spider veins or painful varicose veins can occur due to blood pooling in your legs and in severe cases, blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form.”
Pressure points and skin breakdown.
If a seat or backrest is too firm, too soft or worn down, pressure can accumulate on the hips, tailbone, back or shoulders. Over time, this may lead to skin irritation or even pressure injuries. Proper cushioning and even distribution of body weight are essential to maintaining healthy skin and preventing discomfort.
“Relieving and spreading out pressure over the skin and tissues is the most important part of both preventing and treating pressure injuries,” says MyHealth.Alberta.ca, “Putting pressure on one spot for long periods of time damages the skin and underlying tissues. Pressure can be relieved and spread in several ways. Often a combination of these is best.”
What makes power lift recliners the perfect solutions to poor sitting?
Firstly, they improve posture and alignment. Power recliners are designed to support the body in a healthy, ergonomic manner. They provide structured support through the lower back, neck and full spine. This helps users to maintain natural postures without effort. It also reduces the strain placed on muscles and joints and helps alleviate existing discomfort.
Power lift chairs also offer customizable comfort. Unlike traditional chairs, they allow users to adjust their positions with the touch of a button. This ability to change positions throughout the day helps reduce pressure, improve circulation and prevent stiffness. Features such as independent headrest movement, lumbar adjustment and controlled foot elevation ensure personalized comfort. Small adjustments can make a significant difference in how the body feels over long periods of sitting.
In addition, power lift recliners promote safer sitting and standing. They gently tilt and raise, making it much easier for a person to transition from a seated position to being upright. This reduces the risk of falls and minimizes strain on the back, hips and knees. Many clients report that this feature restores confidence and allows them to move with greater independence.
Contact or visit us today!
If you or someone you care about is experiencing discomfort, struggling to stand from a chair or simply wanting a more supportive seating solution, we invite you to visit us in person. Come experience the comfort, support and ease of a custom-fit power recliner with lift. We would be delighted to help you find a seating solution that enhances comfort, mobility and independence at home.
Our high-quality power lift chairs come in a wide variety of sizes and styles with contemporary fabrics and colours to match your home decor. It will most certainly become your favourite chair in your home. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
