Office Chair Leg Circulation – What is it?

Updated: Jan 21, 2024 6:19 AM
office chair leg circulation guide

Ever wonder why your legs feel weird after sitting too long? Along with all that sitting, slouching, and limited movement impede blood flow and increase the risk for circulatory issues.

So what is office chair blood flow? It refers to the circulation of blood through the body while seated in an office chair, particularly during extended periods of desk work.

Importance of Circulation Concerning Office Chair Blood Flow

Anatomy of legs showing unhealthy veins, Blood Clot and Thrombosis

Proper blood flow while seated is crucial to avoid health issues such as:

  • Swelling (edema)
  • Blood clots
  • Stroke
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Sitting is considered the “new smoking”. However, it doesn’t mean that sitting for short periods is deadly.

Luckily, there are ways to reduce your risk of health issues concerning sitting.

Office Chair Blood Flow: Preventative Measures

An overweight person sitting in office chair with swollen legs.

The overall goal is to ensure your legs get proper blood flow. You can do this by following these steps:

STEP 1 Switch Between Sitting & Standing

Change your position to maintain circulation in your lower body. Use a timer to remind you how often to move.

STEP 2 Stretch and Move

Use light exercises and stretching during breaks to keep blood flowing.

2.8M deaths annually due to lack of activity STAT

STEP 3 Practice Active Sitting

Use a chair or stool that promotes balance to keep muscles active and engaged. Even just the slight squeezing of your thighs can help improve circulation.

STEP 4 Chair Design

The front lip of the chair should be down-turned. This avoids adding extra pressure on the back of the thighs.

STEP 5 Wear Compression Socks

Compression socks enhance circulation and prevent fluid leakage by applying consistent pressure to the legs.

They may take a little time getting used to, but they’re great at preventing edema in the legs.

Pulmonary Embolism kills 100K - 300K people a year STAT

STEP 6 Increase Your Water Intake

Instead of a million cups of coffee or cans of soda, opt for water. Water helps improve digestion and overall circulation, especially in the limbs.

STEP 7 Take Breaks Frequently

To stimulate the circulatory system and prevent blood from pooling in your feet, strive to take a break once an hour or every half hour for best results.

STEP 8 Use a Standing Desk

If none of the suggestions above work for you, then you’ll want to invest in a standing desk.

Newer standing desk designs alternate between sitting and standing. These desks have hydraulics installed to lift the desk to standing levels with just a push of a button.

1 in 10 people will develop DVT in the US Stat

Additionally, if you decide to use a standing desk, you’ll also want an anti-fatigue mat to stand on.

This thick mat helps to improve circulation and comfort while you stand at your desk.

Movement Is Key to Improving Office Chair Blood Flow

Simple activities, breaks, hydration, and stretching can significantly counteract circulation issues due to sitting for long periods in an office chair.

F.A.Q.

Can a chair cut off circulation?

Yes, a chair can cut off circulation if it places too much pressure on the back of your legs. This is especially true if you’re sitting for extended periods.


How can I improve circulation at my desk?

A few good ways to improve circulation would be to invest in a standing desk and to take periodic standing or walking breaks throughout the day.


How should you sit in an office chair?

You should sit so that your feet are flat on the floor with your knees in line or slightly lower than your hips. You should maintain proper posture so that your spine maintains its natural curve with your chair at a 100 to 110-degree angle.



Dorian Smith-Garcia Avatar

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