Experts Warn About 'Dead Leg Syndrome' Associated with Prolonged Sitting

Recent studies and expert advice have highlighted the dangers of prolonged sitting, which can lead to a condition known as "dead leg syndrome", where the glutes and other muscles in the legs gradually lose their strength and function due to lack of activity. This can lead to difficulties in walking, balance problems, and even difficulty standing up from a seated position.

One of the main causes of this condition is prolonged periods of sitting without adequate breaks for physical activity or movement. It's not just about sitting at your desk all day at work, but also watching television, playing video games, or any other sedentary activities that involve little to no movement.

Online users have been reacting strongly on Chinese social media platform Weibo to the risks associated with long hours of sitting. Many netizens shared their own experiences and tips for managing the issue:

"I've been feeling discomfort in my waist recently when I sit for a while," wrote Xiao Dai, a 26-year-old indoor designer from Zhejiang. "I started jogging but found pain in my knees as well. This is really concerning."

Others expressed frustration at the lack of awareness about these risks and the importance of movement throughout the day. Some even joked that schools should provide beds for students to lie down during classes, a sarcastic comment on the perceived excessive sitting culture in modern society.

In response to the advice given by a foreign coach for managing long-term sitting diseases, one netizen shared a Weibo video from Global Records Channel. The video shows simple exercises that can be done at home or in the office to alleviate some of the negative effects of prolonged sitting.

However, not all comments were positive. Some users expressed concern about the long-term impact of standing for extended periods, which can also lead to health issues such as venous ulcers. One user suggested that the best solution may be finding a balance between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Experts agree that it's important to take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, or perform small movements to prevent the onset of "dead leg syndrome" and other health problems associated with prolonged sitting. This is especially true for those who have desk jobs or lead sedentary lifestyles.

In conclusion, it's crucial to be mindful of the risks associated with long hours of sitting and to take active steps to maintain a healthy balance between activity and rest throughout the day. As one netizen put it, "Sitting for a long time is very harmful. You still need to walk around often."