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)
Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints in both active and desk-bound people. Whether it’s from poor posture, overuse at the gym, or simply sleeping wrong, that nagging ache can make everyday tasks feel impossible. The good news? A few simple exercises can help reduce pain, restore mobility, and get your shoulder moving the way it should.
If you’re constantly battling neck pain, you’re not alone. Long hours at a desk, poor posture, and screen time overload can all lead to a stiff, achy neck. But before you rush off to your chiropractor, try these five simple exercises to ease the tension and strengthen your neck:
Back pain isn’t always physical. In fact, stress—emotional or mental—can manifest in the body in very real ways. Have you ever noticed your shoulders creeping toward your ears during a tense day? Or felt your back seize up after an emotionally draining week?
We live in a world built for sitting—desk jobs, long commutes, and hours spent scrolling or watching TV. But all that sitting is taking a serious toll on our backs. In fact, some experts say prolonged sitting is as harmful to your health as smoking.
You hit the gym, go for a run, or try a new fitness class—and the next day, your back is sore. But is that normal muscle fatigue, or a sign of something more serious?
