At the end of a long day, most of us gravitate towards the sofa — our trusted place of rest. Whether it’s for a quick unwind or a full evening of binge-watching, we settle into our favourite spot, often in the same slouched position night after night. It feels harmless — even deserved. But according to a growing body of research, this seemingly innocent habit could be doing serious harm to our health.
Research has revealed a strong link between extended sitting and chronic illness. People who spend long hours seated — even those who exercise regularly — face a 91% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a 24% greater risk of colon cancer, and a 14% increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In short, sitting too much can silently undermine the benefits of an otherwise active lifestyle.
Beyond internal health, our bodies are physically feeling the effects too. A recent poll by the Sofa Club found that 75% of Brits experience pain or discomfort likely caused by the way they sit. Experts say the issue isn’t just poor posture, but sustained posture. “You can sit in almost any position,” says physiotherapist Sam Bowden, “as long as you don’t do it for ages.” Long periods in the same slouched or reclined position led to uneven pressure on the spine, straining muscles, ligaments, and discs, which contributes to chronic neck and back pain.
Circulation also takes a hit. Sitting too long, particularly in awkward positions, can reduce blood flow, increasing the risk of vein problems and further exacerbating discomfort.
The takeaway? Your body is designed to move — not mould to a sofa. Switching positions, taking regular breaks, and simply standing up more often can go a long way toward protecting your long-term health. So next time the couch calls, maybe answer — but don’t stay too long.
By: Dr. Sayali Abhyankar (Chiropractor)
