The orthopedist spoke about the impact of sedentary work on the health of the legs

Prolonged sitting can increase the risk of diseases of the veins and musculoskeletal system due to circulatory disorders, muscle weakness and increased stress on the joints. Antonina Zavadskaya, an orthopedic traumatologist at the First professional network of orthotic salons, told Izvestia on July 11.

According to the expert, the main problem with prolonged sedentary work is that the muscles of the lower leg practically do not contract. Normally, they work as a "muscle pump", helping blood to rise from the legs to the heart, but with a lack of movement, this mechanism becomes less effective.

Zavadskaya noted that due to stagnation of blood in the lower extremities, heaviness and swelling may appear, and with regular repetition of such a load, the risk of developing varicose veins increases.

In addition, a sedentary lifestyle negatively affects the condition of the muscles that support the joints and help to properly distribute the load during movement. Over time, this can lead to stiffness, fatigue, and pain in the knee, hip, and ankle joints.

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The expert added that movement is also necessary for the normal nutrition of articular cartilage. Lack of physical activity combined with weight gain increases the load on the feet and joints, increasing the risk of flat feet, osteoarthritis and other disorders.

"It's enough to get up from your desk every hour, do a little warm-up, walk more often and, if possible, use the stairs instead of the elevator, for example in the office. It is advisable to devote moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day," Zavadskaya said.

To prevent foot health problems, the specialist recommends regular walks, Nordic walking and, if necessary, the use of compression knitwear. It is also important to monitor the appearance of alarming symptoms.

According to the doctor, the constant feeling of heaviness, swelling, pain or swelling in the legs should not be attributed solely to fatigue after a day at work. If symptoms persist, it is necessary to consult a specialist in order to identify possible diseases in a timely manner and begin treatment.

On June 24, general practitioner Andrey Kondrakhin said that the norm of 10,000 steps per day, which many Russians consider a healthy habit, is actually a marketing ploy. According to the expert, a 40-minute walk with an intensive step is considered correct. The doctor explained that the effect for the body is achieved due to the chosen pace.