A sedentary lifestyle can lead to problems with the hip joints. An experienced orthopedic surgeon, a doctor of the highest category, Pavel Sergeevich Semichenkov, spoke about this in a conversation with Gazeta.Ru (18+).
According to the specialist, regular physical activity is necessary for healthy joints. Nutrition of joint tissues is provided by nearby muscles, which function as a pump, maintaining blood circulation and renewal of synovial fluid.
During sedentary work, the muscles of the pelvic region gradually stop working fully and undergo atrophy. In addition, a sitting position creates increased stress on the lumbar spine and hip joints.
“It is not for nothing that it is believed that sometimes sedentary work can be more dangerous than heavy physical labor. At the initial stage, the patient can be helped by conservative therapy and lifestyle correction. In case of pronounced changes, the only way out is to replace the joint with an artificial analogue. Thus, people leading a sedentary lifestyle are at increased risk,” the doctor said.
The doctor notes that in a sitting position there is compression of the gluteal muscles, which play an important role in stabilizing the hip joint. Prolonged compression impairs the nutrition of joint tissues, which leads to cartilage destruction and gait disturbance.
If you experience symptoms such as changes in gait, limited step width, shuffling, or a feeling of stiffness or discomfort in the lower back, you should consult a doctor. Important factors are weight normalization and restoration of muscle activity. A healthy diet and adequate physical activity are key components of joint health.
If significant changes have occurred, the person may need joint replacement. To avoid this, the expert advises doing regular stretches and alternating a sitting position with a standing position. First of all, these recommendations are important for drivers and office workers.
The article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
