Is it dangerous to cross your legs when you are sitting?

The natural tendency to cross the legs when sitting is explained by the fact that it is more relaxing to put one leg on the other than to keep both feet on the ground. This position relieves the perineum, viscera and abdominal muscles. By "blocking" the legs, it also allows the calf and thigh muscles to relax. Some also suggest an aesthetic or cultural attitude, especially in women, or even psychological (crossing your legs would be a "defensive" attitude)

Crossing your legs: is it dangerous?

Opinions are contradictory on the subject. Some studies have shown that crossing your legs increases your arterial pressure and can cause varicose veins by compressing the veins. A 2014 study explains that sitting cross-legged for more than three hours results in an arched posture, a tilt asymmetric shoulders and a torsion lateral pelvic muscle. But other scientists are less assertive. " In reality, it is mainly the fact of sitting in the same position for a long time that has negative effects, legs crossed or not ", Explain Merlin thomas, clinical doctor at Monash University (Australia)

Staying cross-legged for too long can cause backache and hunched shoulders. © oliver0723, Fotolia

How to sit well?

• change direction of crossing regularly;
• keep at least one foot on the ground;
• cross your legs at the ankles rather than at the knees;
• do not swing from one buttock to the other;
• opt for a footrest under your desk where you can put both feet;
• don't stay seated prolonged; it is advisable to take a few steps every two hours;
• practice some exercises for build your back and thus adopt a good posture.