Reducing daily sitting may stop back pain from getting worse; Study

A new study has revealed that reducing daily sitting may stop back pain from getting worse over six months.

The study carried out by the University of Turku shed light on the connection between sitting activity and back pain as well as the mechanisms related to back pain.

The researchers from the Turku PET Centre and UKK Institute in Finland investigated to determine whether reducing daily sitting could take as an effective strategy for preventing or relieving back pain among overweight or obese adults who have excessive sitting daily routines. Over the six months during the study, the participants were able to reduce their daily sitting by 40 minutes.

“Our participants were quite normal middle-aged adults, who sat a great deal, exercised little, and had gained some extra weight. These factors not only increase the risk for cardiovascular disease but also for back pain,” commented Doctoral Researcher and Physiotherapist Jooa Norha from the University of Turku in Finland.

The researchers also explored the potential mechanisms behind the prevention of back pain. “However, we did not observe that the changes in back pain were related to changes in the fattiness or glucose metabolism of the back muscles,” added Norha.

Individuals who suffer from back pain have excessive fat deposits within the back muscles, and impaired glucose metabolism, or insulin sensitivity, which can increase the risk of pain. Nevertheless, back pain can be prevented or relieved even if no improvements in the muscle composition or metabolism take place.

The researchers employed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and PET imaging, which is based on a radioactive tracer to measure the back muscles.

Norha stated that, “If you have a tendency for back pain or excessive sitting and are concerned for your back health, you can try to figure out ways for reducing sitting at work or during leisure time. However, it is important to note that physical activity, such as walking or more brisk exercise, is better than simply standing up.”

The researchers also highlighted that switching between postures is more important than striving for a perfect posture.

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