NIOSH recently posted in their science blog that prolonged standing is not healthy–it can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other health problems. There have been prior studies saying that sitting for long periods is bad for you. It sounds like you shouldn’t sit and you shouldn’t stand. So, what are you to do?
Well, unless you work as a mattress tester, lying down is not likely an option. The key to these studies is “prolonged.” It does cause health problems if we stay in one position for too long. Being able to walk, and switch between sitting and standing, is best. If you work in a job that requires standing for long periods, wearing comfortable shoes, using anti-fatigue mats, putting one foot up to relieve the pressure on your back, wearing shoe inserts or even compression socks may help.
If you are sitting for long periods, having an adjustable chair may help.
To help promote health, being able to move around, changing positions, short stretch breaks, any brief change in activity, will help.
Stay healthy and stay safe!