Sitting, even in the care to and from the doctor's office, can aggravate a bad back.
Why?
Sitting increases the intradiscal pressures in the spine.
Researcher Nachemson documented the amount of pressure on your spine when in various positions: standing, sitting, moving. For this discussion on sitting, see that sitting straight exerts 140 pounds of pressure on the spine. Sitting slouched forward exerts 185 pounds of pressure. Sitting slouched forward holding weight (like a purse or baby) increases the pressures to as high as 275 pounds. Getting up to stretch drops pressure to 100mm in the standing position, so get up periodically to drop the pressure!

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140 pounds of pressure |
185 pounds of pressure |
275 pounds of pressure |
100 pounds of pressure |
What to do if you must sit...
Consider the Amount of Time
If you must sit, do so for 15 minutes to 30 minutes and get up to stretch. Don't sit for long periods of time.
Consider the Chair
Carefully choose your chair! Be sure it is fit for you.
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Be sure it is a supportive chair with arm rests.
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Be sure your feet to rest flatly on the floor. -
Sit straight with your shoulders relaxed. -
Sit with your back against the chair's back.
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Remember to get up periodically.
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Reference
"This information and website content is not intended to diagnose, guarantee results, or recommend specific treatment or activity. It is designed to educate and inform only. Please consult your physician for a thorough examination leading to a diagnosis and well-planned treatment strategy. See more details on the
DISCLAIMER page. Content is reviewed by
Dr. James M. Cox I."