Do you use a standup desk, and if so, how?

Question

I switched to a standup desk two weeks ago (found a motorized one on sale at Costco with one-touch presets), but finding it harder than I expected to switch to standing. I switched because sitting all day is supposed to be bad for your health, and because I struggle with keeping good posture while sitting, but now I'm finding my lower back hurting and also my hamstrings. Now I'm guessing the hamstrings may be temporary as I get used to being on my feet all day instead of sitting down, but less sure about the lower back. (I'm in my 50s, in good health, good BMI, reasonably good physical shape).I was wondering how many of you use a standup desk and if so, how do you use it (i.e., full-time, alternate stand/sit every hour, etc.), and any tips or things you learned to make it better.I did get a rocker pad to stand on (nothing fancy, but has a soft rubber cover with lugs) helps me move around and shift positions. I've had it about a week now.One thing I'm having a hard time is finding the right position for my "mouse" arm (right arm); I feel pulling in my arm, even though I have the desk at the right height for my keyboard (elbows at about 100 deg).Is it just a matter of getting used to it? Should I alternate sitting/standing? Any tips for the mouse (other than use keyboard shortcuts more?)

runjake · Accepted Answer

If you&rsquo;re in a situation where you have back issues/pains and are considering a standing desk, try doing 2 minute planks every day.You can break the planks up into 30 second/1 minute chunks until you get to the point where you can plank for 2 minutes at a go.It took about a week and I noticed significant reduction in pain and better core strength.Better yet, do planks and buy a standing desk! I have a cheap $250 Flexispot desk that is still going strong.

metadat · Answer

Some questions, I've found each of these to have significant impact on comfort levels:
- Stand in one position for a long time? (I've found it's best to not stand in the exact same position for too long)
- Leaning / putting your weight on the desk?
- Using an external keyboard or are you using the laptop keyboard?
- Do you have a rubber mat or soft carpet surface under your feet?
I'm no MD (except for computers :p), but if your lower back is hurting perhaps consider looking at your foot situation, maybe different / more supportive shoes or standing surface.
It took me 3-6 months of consistent usage before the standing desk situation felt comfortable and natural. Now I hate sitting at a desk, it's uncomfortable (hah).

pawelduda · Answer

I just alternate between sitting/standing/kneeling. I think the worst thing is being stuck in the same position for a long time, even if it's ergonomically correct. Standing still all day all week long can also have downsides. Definitely don't force anything when it feels uncomfortable, stand up even if only for 20 mins and go back to sitting - just make sure you can switch back and forth easily so it doesn't become annoying.

codingdave · Answer

Standing all day is also bad for your health. Variety is the key. I switch between sitting, standing, and kneeling on a pillow. I tend to sit while coding, stand on meetings, and kneel when catching up on emails. But I also just do what feels right. Listen to your body.

surprisetalk · Answer

Not a standing desk, but I use a backless kneeling chair: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09H1CLK1G