Workplace Health
Back Pain From Sitting
Why long hours in a chair can leave the low back stiff or sore, and what tends to help during the workday.
Sitting is not inherently harmful, but sitting in one position for hours reduces the variety of loads the spine experiences. Tissues that stay in a sustained position often feel stiff or achy when they are finally asked to move.
Common contributors include a chair that does not support the pelvis, a screen that pulls the head and trunk forward, and simply going too long between position changes.
What often helps
Change position regularly rather than searching for one perfect posture. Short standing or walking breaks, a supported seated position, and general conditioning are all reasonable starting points.
If back pain is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by leg symptoms, an evaluation is appropriate rather than continued self-management.
This article is general education, not personal medical advice. If your symptoms include any red-flag signs, seek prompt medical evaluation.
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