Is crossing your legs harmful? Here's how it affects your body

Many people sit this way for years and do not notice problems until the body starts to "scream".

Here is what actually happens when the cross-legged position becomes habitual:

• Muscle imbalance appears - some muscles become overstrained, others weaken;
• The gluteal muscles, lower back muscles and thigh muscles shorten and go into spasm;
• Trigger points (painful muscle knots) form;
• Muscle pain occurs, mobility becomes limited;
• Blood vessels are compressed - tissue nutrition in the pelvis and lower back is disrupted.

It is especially dangerous:

• With varicose veins and a tendency to thrombosis
• With existing back pain
• During pregnancy (blood flow in the pelvis is disrupted)

You do not have to completely forbid yourself this position. But it is important:

• Change your body position every 15–20 minutes;
• Do not sit with crossed legs for hours;
• Take breaks to stretch;
• Strengthen the pelvic and lower back muscles (regular physical therapy).

If you already have lower back pain, numbness in your legs, or a feeling of heaviness in your pelvis - do not endure it. This is a reason to check your spine and blood vessels.