Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. This is at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we truly believe in. Your support helps us keep the site running! Thank you.
To sit at a desk with hypermobility comfortably and happily you need to invest in ergonomics. A good chair and the right desk should be at the top of your list.
You also need to focus on your posture. People with hypermobility have poor posture because their connective tissue is lax. Sitting poorly often feels nice – even if it’s just for a short time.
So, let’s find out more about hypermobile sitting positions and what the best way to sit at a desk with hypermobility is.
How do hypermobile people sit?
Sitting with hypermobility can be a challenge due to the nature of your joint condition.
Hypermobility affects the connective tissues that hold the joints together, making them looser and more flexible than usual. This means that hypermobile people may find it difficult to sit in one position for an extended period.
When hypermobile individuals sit, they tend to slouch or slump to alleviate the tension in their joints. This can lead to poor posture and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back.
It’s also hard to sit with good posture with hypermobility. Hypermobile individuals may find it challenging to maintain proper alignment of their hips and pelvis when sitting, which can cause discomfort and pain.
W-sitting in hypermobility is also common. This is where you sit on your bottom with your legs kicked out behind you in the shape of a W. It’s typically seen in toddlers and young children with hypermobility.
W-sitting is not a supportive position to sit in and is not recommended. However, people with hypermobility tend to find it comfortable.
Are bad posture and hypermobility common?
Bad posture and hypermobility are closely related. When a person with hypermobility has poor posture, it increases joint pain and instability.
Hypermobility often means that the ligaments holding joints together are looser than normal. This makes it easier for joints to become misaligned or injured. When a hypermobile person also has poor posture, it can exacerbate these issues, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.
What’s the best way to sit at a desk with hypermobility?
The best way to sit at a desk with hypermobility is to first choose a chair that provides adequate support for your back, neck, and hips. Look for a chair with adjustable height and lumbar support. You may also want to consider using a cushion to provide additional support.
Make sure you check out our post on the Best Office Chairs for Hypermobility.
Next, always keep your feet flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. This can help to reduce pressure on your lower back and hips.
Try to avoid sitting in the same position for too long. Take frequent breaks and stretch your muscles to help prevent stiffness and pain.
You can also try using a standing desk or an exercise ball as an alternative to sitting in a chair.
Lastly, practice good posture by keeping your shoulders back, chest out, and chin up. Avoid slouching or leaning forward, as this can put additional strain on your spine.
How to sit at a desk with hypermobility with good posture
Good posture helps to support and stabilize hypermobile joints, reducing the risk of injury and pain. Proper alignment also helps to prevent the development of compensatory movements or muscle imbalances. These typically occur when hypermobile individuals rely on their muscles to compensate for unstable joints.
It is important for hypermobile individuals to maintain good posture and to work on strengthening their muscles to support their joints. Physical therapy can be a helpful tool in developing a tailored exercise program to address the specific needs of each individual with hypermobility and poor posture.
How to sit at desk with knee pain
Knee pain is common with hypermobility. If you find sitting at a desk with knee pain caused by hypermobility difficult.
Here are some tips to help:
- Use an ergonomic chair – An ergonomic chair can provide better support and reduce pressure on your knees. Look for a chair with adjustable height, tilt, and lumbar support.
- Sit with your feet flat on the ground – Keep your feet flat on the ground and avoid crossing your legs. This can help reduce pressure on your knees.
- Keep your knees at a 90-degree angle – Adjust your chair height so that your knees are at a 90-degree angle. This can help reduce pressure on your knees.
- Use a footrest – If your feet don’t touch the ground when you sit, use a footrest to support them. This can help reduce pressure on your knees.
- Take frequent breaks – Stand up and stretch your legs every 30 minutes or so. This can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation in your knees. Your employer should be supportive of your medical condition and allow recommended workplace adaptations for hypermobility for you.
- Consider using a knee pillow – If you have knee pain, using a knee pillow can help reduce pressure on your knees while you sit.
How do you sit with hEDS?
Hypermobility is one of the main symptoms of hEDS. So, it’s normal to feel uncomfortable when sitting at a desk.
Thankfully, there are things you can to sit more comfortably with hEDS, including:
- Use supportive chairs – Choose a chair that has good lumbar support and adjustable armrests. The chair should also have a seat that is adjustable in height and depth, as well as a backrest that can be tilted.
- Avoid sitting for too long – It’s important to take frequent breaks and stand up, stretch, and walk around every 30 minutes or so.
- Use cushions – For added support and comfort, use cushions to support your lower back, neck, and hips.
- Keep your feet flat on the ground – Avoid crossing your legs, as this can worsen joint pain and instability.
- Maintain good posture – Sit with your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Avoid slouching or leaning forward, as this can place extra strain on your joints.
- Consider a standing desk – Standing desks can be a great option for people with EDS who find sitting for long periods uncomfortable. Standing also promotes better circulation and can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Check out our Guide On Standing Desks to find the best one for your hypermobile needs.
Remember, everyone with EDS is different and may have unique needs when it comes to sitting. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider or physical therapist to develop an individualized plan that works best for you.
Sitting at a desk with hypermobility doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or painful. By following these tips and investing in good-quality ergonomics, you can work happily.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/children/what-to-know-about-w-sitting-in-children
