May 2017

What is Silicon Valley Syndrome & How Can it Be Prevented?

Back in the 90’s, Northern California began booming with tech jobs. Now some of the largest companies call San Fran their home base. The only downfall – Silicon Valley Syndrome. This is also referred to as “Computer Posture.” Wherever you look, whichever state you reside in, you’ll see people struggling with their posture due to their 9-5 office jobs.

back pain

Some of the classic symptoms include stiff neck and tight shoulders along with a sharp pain going down the spine. During the weekend, it might get easier but come Monday, that sharp pain is back.

A sedentary lifestyle leads to an increased risk of diabetes as well as obesity and heart attacks. In a recent study, young Americans were found to be three times as likely as older Americans to cut back on technology when they noticed symptoms of Silicon Valley Syndrome. Older Americans were twice as likely to take prescription medications to treat this.

The Street discusses that Silicon Valley Syndrome has led to $20 billion being lost each year on workers’ compensation related to back, neck and eye issues. Health workers want to combat this syndrome by having Americans exercise for over 150 minutes each week.

Use a Stand Up Desk

Using a stand up desk such as the lightweight, easy to assemble desks by StandStand is a surefire way to improve your posture and prevent neck and back aches. Not only will you notice your posture changing, but you’ll be much more productive at work. Standing desks allow users to move around more frequently, stretch out their legs, back and arms. You’ll slowly realize you aren’t hunching and can stand with confidence. Browse through our products to see which desk is right for you!

desk

Standing Desks are Now in Libraries

Standing desks have been growing in popularity as they offer a slew of benefits including lowered risk of obesity, boosted productivity, improved blood sugar, and lowered risk of heart disease. It’s not only businesses that are getting in on the trend. Now, libraries are making space for standing desks – specifically, college campuses.

Standing desks have recently been placed at the Law Library in Georgetown, the libraries at NC State University, the D’Angelo Law Library at the University of Chicago and the Berkeley Library at the University of California per students’ requests.

NC State University is going above and beyond to make their students feel comfortable by incorporating exercise balls and foot rests. Originally, only one standing desk was installed at the D’Angelo Law Library at the University of Chicago but due to its popularity, they’ve incorporated several more.

Other libraries featuring standing desks, include:

  • Keffer Library – University of St. Thomas
  • Hampton Library – University of Southampton
  • Buswell Library – Wheaton College
  • Law Library – Pepperdine University
  • Goldman Law Library – Yale University
  • Health Sciences Library – New York Medical College
  • Main Library – The University of Edinburgh

If you’re stopping into a library that does not offer standing desks, fortunately, we have you covered. Our lightweight, adjustable stand up desks are compact and easily fit in your backpack. Each desk takes seconds to assemble and they are incredibly sturdy.

Choose from the stand up desk in birch or bamboo. Take a look at some of our desks below!

standing desk

Psychological Benefits of a Standing Desk

It’s clear that sitting for long hours, day after day can lead to a slew of health issues such as increased risk of obesity and high blood pressure. Often times, people don’t consider the psychological consequences as well. Through the use of standing desks, people are beginning to notice improvements in both their physical and mental well-being.

  • Blood Circulation – By standing for an extended period of time, blood circulates more efficiently which means oxygen is being pumped into the brain. Ultimately, your mind remains focused so you become much more productive.

 

  • Small Movements – When you stand up at your desk you’ll probably notice yourself making small movements. Whether you’re tapping your fingers, shuffling your feet or playing with your pen cap, these motions keep a portion of your brain busy while the rest of your attention is focused on what needs to be done. When standing, feel free to stretch out your arms or even dance a little bit to keep the back of your mind occupied.

 

  • Better Posture – If you stand at your desk with your shoulders back rather than slumped over, you’ll begin to feel more confident. You’ll end up feeling positive effects over time the longer you stand at your desk, which means you will stand more confidently and feel more confident. Set aside time every day to practice a more powerful stance and over time you will start feeling self-assured.

 

  • Increased Stamina – For those with a mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety, a standing desk can work wonders. Most people see an increase in stamina and mental alertness.

Choose StandStand for Your Standing Desk

At StandStand, we strive to make each and every one of our valued customers as comfortable as possible with our lightweight, easy to assemble standing desks. If you’re ready to get in shape, increase productivity and build your self-confidence, it’s time for a standing desk. Browse our selection of StandStand desks or fill out our contact form.