Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Dr. Nathalie Johnson Honored with the Impact Award at NCoBC 2025

NCBC President Jennifer Plichta, MD, MS, FACS, CGRA, presents Dr. Nathalie Johnson, MD, FACS, with the 2025 Impact Award.

Research

Sit Happens: The Gluteal Consequences of Office Chair Butt

Sit Happens: The Gluteal Consequences of Office Chair Butt
Photo by PHC Software on Unsplash

In today's increasingly sedentary work environment, the phenomenon known as "office chair butt" has become a growing concern. This term colloquially refers to the physical and health changes that result from prolonged sitting, particularly in an office setting. While it may sound trivial, the implications of sitting for extended periods are anything but. From muscle degeneration to serious metabolic changes, the impact on health can be significant.

Understanding Office Chair Butt

"Office chair butt" is characterized by a loss of muscle tone and definition in the gluteal region, primarily due to prolonged periods of inactivity. Sitting for extended hours can lead to muscle atrophy, where muscles weaken and shrink due to lack of use. This is exacerbated by poor posture, which can further contribute to the weakening of the core and lower body muscles.


A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that sitting for more than eight hours a day without physical activity increases the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers . This sedentary lifestyle can also lead to weight gain and obesity, further compounding the issue of "office chair butt."

Health Risks of Prolonged Sitting

The health risks associated with prolonged sitting extend beyond aesthetic concerns. One of the most serious risks is the development of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. According to the Mayo Clinic, prolonged sitting is linked to higher blood pressure, increased blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels .

Moreover, sitting for long periods can lead to poor circulation, resulting in swollen ankles and varicose veins. It can also contribute to chronic back pain, neck pain, and even herniated discs due to the constant pressure on the spine.

Combating Office Chair Butt

Addressing the issue of "office chair butt" requires a multifaceted approach that includes both physical activity and ergonomic adjustments. Here are some strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged sitting:

  1. Regular Exercise: Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine is crucial. Activities such as walking, running, cycling, and strength training can help maintain muscle tone and overall health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week .
  2. Standing Desks: Using a standing desk or a sit-stand workstation can reduce the amount of time spent sitting. Alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day helps improve circulation and reduces the risk of muscle atrophy.
  3. Ergonomic Chairs: Investing in an ergonomic office chair that supports good posture can make a significant difference. Chairs that promote proper alignment of the spine and provide adequate support for the lower back can help reduce the strain on muscles.
  4. Frequent Breaks: Taking short breaks to stand, stretch, and walk around can alleviate the negative effects of prolonged sitting. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, can be an effective way to incorporate movement into your day.
  5. Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises that target the glutes, such as squats, lunges, and leg lifts, can help counteract muscle weakening. Incorporating these exercises into your routine can help maintain muscle tone and prevent "office chair butt."

"Office chair butt" is more than just a cosmetic issue; it reflects a broader epidemic of sedentary lifestyles that pose serious health risks. By understanding the implications of prolonged sitting and implementing strategies to counteract its effects, individuals can improve their health and well-being. Regular exercise, ergonomic adjustments, and conscious efforts to reduce sitting time are essential steps in combating the negative impact of a sedentary work environment.

References:

  1. American Journal of Preventive Medicine. (2020). The Risks of Prolonged Sitting and Sedentary Behavior.
  2. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Sitting Risks: How Harmful Is Too Much Sitting?
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

More Stories

Recent Ban of Red Dye 3 and Its Complicated History

I don't know about everyone else, but there is nothing better than a maraschino cherry on top of an ice cream sundae. I'm also a sucker for ice cream and candy, but it seems like some of my favorite foods are soon going to be getting a makeover. For decades, Red Dye 3 (also known as erythrosine) has been a contentious ingredient in food and consumer products. Recently, this synthetic dye has been banned in the United States, sparking significant public discourse about food safety and regulatory practices. There is a history of Red Dye 3. There are reasons for its prohibition, and its implications for consumers and manufacturers.

What is Red Dye 3?

Red Dye 3 is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It has been widely used in candies, baked goods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications to impart a bright red hue. Despite its aesthetic appeal, concerns about its safety have loomed for years. it is important to note that Red Dye 3 isn't limited to just foods. It can also be found in medications such as Gabapentin (a nerve pain medication), Prozac (an antidepressant), and Acetaminophen.

Keep ReadingShow less
Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?
Photo by Hiki App on Unsplash

Are Neurodevelopmental conditions actually on the rise?

In recent decades, there has been a striking increase in diagnoses of neurodevelopmental conditions like autism, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We see more organizations to address these issues. We heard about it more in the news. People have theories about this being caused by the things we eat or, on the other side, that we are better at diagnosing diseases. This surge has sparked debates and curiosity: Are these conditions becoming more common, or is our understanding of the brain simply evolving? The answer, as it turns out, is a mix of both.

The Numbers at a Glance

  • Autism diagnoses in the United States have increased from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 36 in 2023, according to the CDC.
  • ADHD diagnoses among children rose from 6.1% in 1997 to 10.2% in 2016, per the National Survey of Children's Health.
  • Similar trends have been observed for other conditions like ADD, dyslexia, and even sensory processing disorders.

This rise may seem alarming, but it's essential to examine the factors driving these numbers.

Keep ReadingShow less

Advancements and Hope During National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

German psychiatrist Dr. Alois Alzheimer discovered Alzheimer's disease in 1906. He had a patient named Auguste Deter who suffered from memory loss, paranoia, and other psychological changes. After Deter died, Alzheimer examined her brain and found abnormal deposits and shrinkage around nerve cells, which are now known as amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Every November, National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month draws attention to a condition that affects millions of lives and families across the United States. Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, this observance aims to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, highlight advancements in research, and inspire hope for a future free from its devastating effects.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases worldwide. It is a progressive neurological disorder that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior, ultimately making it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities. Today, over 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s, a number projected to nearly double by 2050 without medical breakthroughs 【1】【2】.

Keep ReadingShow less
New FDA Ruling Highlights the Importance of Breast Density in Cancer Detection

New FDA Ruling Highlights the Importance of Breast Density in Cancer Detection

In November 2017, just two months after an "all-clear" mammogram, Leslie Ferris Yerger was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The shocking news spurred her to investigate how the density of her breasts may have contributed to her cancer being overlooked.

“I realized that having breast cancer missed on mammograms was a systemic problem. I knew that I could not keep this a secret. I had to let people know. I didn’t want my story to become their story. I realized that if nothing changed, there would be more stories like mine,” Yerger explained.

Keep ReadingShow less

Unlocking the Mystery of KCNB1 Mutation: A Key to Understanding Neurological Disorders

The KCNB1 gene mutation, though relatively rare, has significant implications for neurological and developmental health. This mutation affects the KCNB1 gene, which encodes a voltage-gated potassium channel critical for regulating electrical signals in the brain. Understanding this mutation is vital because it can lead to severe developmental delays, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders. Research into the KCNB1 mutation is ongoing, with scientists striving to unravel its complexities and develop potential treatments.

What Is the KCNB1 Mutation?

Keep ReadingShow less
×