Professionals Who Stand: Preventing Harm
In the modern hustle and bustle of life, there's a group of heroes that spans across the professions, from the diligent nurse attending to his patients, to the stylist creating cuts and color, to busy moms who never seem to have a moment to themselves, to assistants, to people who support others. You know them, you are them! These are the professionals on their feet, often overlooked when considering the physical demands of a job. Many people might not immediately recognize the cumulative strain that standing and walking for extended periods can have on the body, but the reality is that these seemingly benign activities, when prolonged, can pose hidden risks.
Risks of Prolonged Standing
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Public Health indicates that prolonged standing can lead to serious long-term health issues such as chronic muscle fatigue, which could later result in musculoskeletal disorders (1). Hairstylists, retail workers, teachers, and countless other professionals stand for hours, often on hard surfaces, putting undue stress on their lower limbs, back, and joints. Over time, these minor discomforts can escalate into chronic pain, disrupting the quality of life.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
The need to stand in one's occupation can have a significant toll on the spine and limbs. The human body, while designed for movement, is not meant to maintain an upright posture for prolonged periods without relief. Standing can lead to uneven distribution of weight, placing excess stress on the lower back and spine. This continual strain can lead to muscle fatigue and imbalances, where certain muscles become overworked while others become weak from underuse. As these muscular imbalances persist, they can lead to misalignment in the spine and joints, resulting in chronic pain in the back, neck, and other limbs. Over time, this discomfort can also manifest as stiffness, further limiting mobility and range of motion.
Chronic pain is not just an isolated issue; it can have far-reaching implications for one's overall health. Persistent pain is known to exacerbate underlying inflammation within the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or disease, but when it becomes chronic, it can contribute to a host of health problems. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers have been associated with various conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even depression. What starts as localized pain from constant standing can cascade into a systemic issue, impacting multiple facets of one's health and well-being.
Stress and Standing
In addition to the physical strain, there's an intricate stress component intertwined with being constantly on one's feet. The American Journal of Epidemiology suggests a strong correlation between occupations that require prolonged standing and the onset of heart diseases, linking the physical strain with mental and emotional fatigue (2).
Acupuncture to Support People Who Stand
So, what solutions exist for these silent warriors? Acupuncture with its holistic effect on both the mind and the body, is a tremendously supportive experience for non-stop professionals who must stand. According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture has proven effective in treating various pain conditions, especially those related to musculoskeletal issues.
For professionals constantly on their feet, acupuncture can provide immense relief. Specific acupuncture points target leg, foot, and lower back pain, alleviating the daily wear and tear experienced by these individuals. A study in Current Rheumatological Reports highlighted the efficacy of acupuncture in reducing pain and improving functionality in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, emphasizing its potential for those in standing professions (3).
Furthermore, the holistic nature of acupuncture doesn't just address the physical. It has been well-established that acupuncture lowers serum cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, promoting relaxation and mental well-being (4).
Take-Home Points
We must acknowledge and address the challenges faced by professionals on their feet. Acupuncture offers both physical and mental respite for these individuals. Whether you're a stay-at-home mom or a busy professional, prioritizing well-being is essential. And with holistic approaches like acupuncture, a balanced and pain-free life becomes an attainable reality.