The Sitting Trap: How Your Office Chair is Killing Your Productivity

While it isn’t totally incorrect, the reality is that Elon Musk disrupting the office chair would come in handy for many of us – especially me.

For the past 5 years I have been suffering from swollen feet and legs, which doctors believe is due to poor circulation. My own research on MedMD proves that this could be in part correct, but most probably having four rounds of IVF wasn’t helpful, aging and not moving from my desk from 6 am to 6 pm, likely exacerbates the issue.

What symptoms are associated with poor circulation?

They commonly include:

• Numbness and tingling: Especially in the legs and feet.
• Aching and cramping: Can feel like pins and needles or a heavy, tight sensation.
• Coldness: Extremities might feel icy even in a warm environment.
• Swelling: Particularly in the ankles and feet.
• Fatigue: Tiredness persisting even after a good night's sleep.

The Medical low-down on poor circulation

Normally, the heart efficiently pumps blood, carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. Veins return the used blood, aided by muscle contractions. But sitting disrupts the flow:

• Blood pools: Inactivity causes blood to get stuck in your legs and feet.
• Veins weaken: Over time, constant pressure can damage vein walls.
• Blood flow slows: Less oxygen and nutrients reach your cells.
• Waste builds up: Toxins can't be efficiently removed, causing fatigue and discomfort.

Causes: Beyond just a Desk Chair, the causes for poor circulation are vast

While sitting is a major culprit, other factors can worsen poor circulation:

• Age: As we age, our veins naturally become less elastic.
• Weight: Carrying extra pounds puts more strain on your circulatory system.
• Smoking: Damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow.
• Certain medications: Can have side effects that affect circulation.
• Underlying conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and others can contribute.

Treatment Options: Getting the Blood Flowing Again

If you're experiencing symptoms, don't just sit there – excuse the pun! Talk to your doctor and find out what is happening in your body that may be contributing to poor circulation. They can assess your situation and recommend:

• Lifestyle changes: Exercise is key! Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
• Compression socks: Can help squeeze blood back up your legs.
• Medications: To improve blood flow or address underlying conditions.
• Elevation: Prop your legs up when resting to encourage blood flow back to your heart.

Natural Remedies: Boosting Circulation from Within

Nature offers some handy tools too:

• Drink plenty of water: Hydration keeps your blood thin and flowing.
• Eat a healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can constrict blood vessels. Try relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
• Warm baths or showers: Can temporarily improve blood flow and soothe muscles.
• Massage therapy: Can help loosen tight muscles and promote circulation.

10 Tips to Get Your Blood Pumping in the Office:

1. Set a timer and stand up every 30 minutes: Do some stretches, walk around, or even just grab a glass of water.
2. Invest in a standing desk: Alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day.
3. Use an under-desk footrest: Elevate your legs to improve circulation and reduce leg strain.
4. Do chair yoga or desk stretches: Simple movements can get your blood flowing without leaving your seat.
5. Squeeze a stress ball: This can improve circulation in your hands and forearms.
6. Walk during your lunch break: Get some fresh air and sunshine to boost your mood and circulation.
7. Take the stairs instead of the elevator: Every step counts!
8. Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothes can restrict blood flow; however, as many of us know, during COVID, when we wore our tracksuits to work, we realised that we had put on a few pounds that we didn’t realise were there.
9. Wiggle your toes and ankles regularly: Even small movements can help.
10. Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

Remember, small changes can make a big difference. Listen to your body, move your body, and don't let your office chair become your circulation's worst enemy. Please don’t ignore the symptoms because it could be an underlying issue that really needs treatment.

Also, your body is talking to you if it is swelling up just from sitting down for too long. It is saying, “get up and move, you lazy shit!”