Nov 06, 2024
Standing for long hours could increase risk of blood clots, study finds
Siddhartha JanaDuring the Covid-19 pandemic, standing desks became popular in home and office setups as a way to reduce the negative health effects of prolonged sitting.
Source: Canva
A University of Sydney study found that standing for over two hours a day might increase the risk of health issues, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and varicose veins.
Source: Canva
The study, involving data from over 83,000 UK adults, concluded that prolonged standing alone does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke or heart failure.
Source: Canva
Dr. Pravin Kahale, a cardiologist, noted that while standing is somewhat better than sitting, it does not significantly improve cardiovascular health without movement.
Source: Canva
Prolonged standing can restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of DVT, a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs.
Source: Canva
Extended periods of standing also increase pressure on leg veins, leading to varicose veins and venous insufficiency, where veins swell and valves malfunction.
Source: Canva
If left untreated, venous insufficiency and varicose veins may lead to more severe complications, such as non-healing ulcers, though they aren't directly related to heart disease.
Source: Canva
Regular movement, like short walks, stretching, or sit-stand cycles, is more beneficial for health than just standing, as it boosts circulation, mental focus, and energy.
Source: Canva
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