Feeling pain or numbness in the legs after prolonged sitting could be a sign of nerve compression, which requires prompt medical attention, a doctor said on Monday last week.
As sitting for long periods while working or scrolling on a phone have become more common, more young people are reporting pain, numbness or weakness in the legs and feet, Ten-Chan General Hospital neurosurgeon Hsu Shao-yuan (許劭遠) said.
Such persisting symptoms could be signs of nerve compression, Hsu said.
Photo: CNA
Health issues such as herniated intervertebral discs or sciatic pain caused by sedentary positions, poor posture or a lack of exercise have become more prevalent in the past few years in people aged 30 to 50, he said.
Hsu cautioned people against prolonged use of computers or mobile phones, as it places the spine under pressure for a long time and affects neurological functioning.
Lower back pain, unilateral radiating leg pain or numbness, and muscular weakness were the most common symptoms, he said.
Such symptoms could affect walking or sleep quality, Hsu said, calling on people not to ignore such signs.
Most patients do not need immediate operations, as their symptoms could be improved through medication, rehabilitation or nerve blockade, he said.
Whether surgery is necessary would depend on evaluation by a doctor, he said.
People should maintain good posture and avoid keeping the same posture for a long time, Hsu said.
A proper amount of stretching and other exercises are recommended to reduce the risk of nerve compression, he said.
Those who experience symptoms of nerve compression should see a doctor as early as possible, Hsu said.
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