8 Standing Desk Benefits

May 30, 2023
benefits-of-standing-desk.jpg

They’re not just a fad, they’re great for you!

Learn about eight standing desk benefits and stand up for your health.

 

Healthy habits have been a hot topic for many years. There have been fad diets, new lifestyles, interactive bicycles and mirrors, and even top rated television shows like The Biggest Loser to inspire people to lose weight.

You might be inspired by all of this, but if you’re like most people, you’re simply overwhelmed by all these choices. Besides, where do you find time to fit it all in?

What if we told you that a sit-to-stand desk could help you get a healthier lifestyle in more ways than one? Read on to find out about the top standing desk benefits.

 

What Is a Standing Desk?

A standing desk is a surface that is tall enough to use while standing upright. It sounds straightforward, but there are a variety of different types to choose from.

The first things to consider are:

  1. how tall you want your standing desk to be and
  2. whether or not it is adjustable.

Standing or sitting, your desk should rest comfortably under your elbows when your arms are bent at a 90 degree angle. Obviously, this means that different people will require different heights.

Man working at standing desk

Having a height-adjustable standing desk is the easiest way to solve these problems, but even among the sit-to-stand desks (as they are called), you have options.

Some of the least expensive options are manual crank desks. When you want to adjust the height, you turn a crank to either raise or lower the surface.

There are also several electric options. These types use an electric motor to set your desk to your preferred height with the touch of a button. Certain models allow for preset heights for easy adjusting. This is especially helpful if multiple people will be using it.

If you don’t exactly want to buy a whole new piece of furniture, you can even find versions that sit on top of your existing desk.

 

Which Standing Desk Is the Best?

As a chiropractor, I have a front row seat to the ways that people cause damage and injury to their joints. And while sitting all day can wreak havoc on your body, constant standing can contribute to foot pain, leg pain, and hip issues.

The debate between sitting vs a standing desk doesn’t come down to which is better. Optimally, you should be incorporating both into your work day. 

You’re likely to see the most benefits of a standing desk from sitting and standing for equal amounts of time during your workday. I would recommend a sit-to-stand desk that’s easy to adjust. (An anti-fatigue mat can help with any foot pain you get while standing.)

The human body works best when it’s in motion. If you stay in any position for eight hours a day, you’re going to feel the effects of it sooner or later. Being able to easily sit or stand whenever you need will keep you moving and comfortable.

As far as manual vs. electric or furniture vs. desk topper, it’s all down to your personal preference. If cost is a major factor, a manual crank version will probably be your best bet. If you don’t want to bother with the hassle of winding a crank multiple times a day, electric models are the way to go.

 

Standing Desk Benefits

Of course, it doesn’t do any good to start shopping around for your new office before you’re completely onboard.

Here are eight excellent standing desk benefits that you’ll notice right away.

1. Reduces Back Pain

According to the American Chiropractic Association, an estimated 80% of Americans will experience back pain during their lives. Fortunately, using a sit-to-stand desk can help alleviate some of that.

When we sit at a desk all day, we are putting pressure on our spine. And it’s only made worse if you’re not sitting with proper posture (like most people). Using a standing desk puts your back, arms, and neck in a more ergonomic position.

2. Reduces Fatigue

Raise your hand if you frequently experience that afternoon caffeine crash and just can’t keep your eyes open. Yep…I’m seeing a lot of hands.

Use a standing desk to give yourself a boost of energy! It may even help reduce caloric intake because you won’t be grabbing that second (or third!) cup o’ joe at 4pm.

3. Reduces Risk of Cancer

Yes, you read that correctly.

According to Mayo Clinic, being sedentary (like sitting at a desk) can increase your risk of cancer. It’s better to be active (or at least standing) to help reduce that risk.

Among the many benefits of a standing desk: increased productivity.

4. Boosts Productivity

Sometimes, the simple act of changing your position can make a humdrum activity feel new again. Combine that with the boost in energy and the decreased back pain, you’re sure to feel the difference.

When you feel better, you do better.

5. Helps With Digestion

After that super healthy lunch you just ate, why go back to sitting? Sitting causes your internal organs to get “squished” up. Your stomach could use a stretch, too!

Sitting for a long period of time after eating can lead to heartburn, too. When standing, it elongates your torso which not only is better for your insides, but speeds up digestion.

6. Burns More Calories

Even though standing isn’t exactly “active exercise,” using a standing desk does help burn calories.

Standing for just 4 hours a day burns an average of 300 more calories than sitting for eight straight hours. Multiply that times 365 days a year and it really adds up!

You can even maximize your calorie burn by adding an under-desk treadmill or exercise bike!

Your posture sitting vs. standing

7. Improves Posture

People tend to slouch more when they’re sitting as opposed to standing. If you have your standing desk at the right height, and your monitor adjusted accordingly, you will be forced to stand straighter than if you were sitting.

8. Lower Blood Sugar

For those at risk of developing diabetes, you’re probably used to hearing that regular exercise will help those blood sugar spikes. But research has suggested that standing throughout the day can lead to a 30% lower rise in blood sugar.

 

Experience the Benefits of a Standing Desk Today

If you’re used to sitting for the majority of your day, a sit-to-stand desk is a worthy investment in your productivity and your health.

According to research on the subject, you’ll get the most benefits from standing about four hours a day. A sit-to-stand desk that’s easily adjustable will allow you to accomplish this without too much disruption in your day-to-day life.

Of course, if you’re still feeling pain after making the switch to a standing desk—or you start experiencing new pain—the experts at Oviedo Chiropractic can help. Call today to make an appointment and start living pain free.

Justin Cough

Dr. Justin Cough, D.C.

Dr. Cough graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, FL after receiving his BS in Education from SUNY Oswego. Before becoming a chiropractor, he coached many middle and high school sports teams including football, lacrosse, basketball, and soccer. He is passionate about focusing on our bodies' natural healing mechanisms and helping his patients enjoy the utmost sustainability in their lives.

For some, chiropractic offers relief from pain. For others, it's about feeling and looking good. Call today and see what chiropractic can do for you!

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