New research shows that sitting in a slumped position for prolonged periods significantly reduces lung capacity, expiratory flow and lumbar lordosis (the natural curvature of the spine).

With modern surgery and laboratory design, the majority of dental team members are seated for much of their working lives. Good posture while seated is readily recognised as essential for good back health but the recently reported research suggests that it may also be of more significance than previously thought in lung and breathing function. The study, from the Rehabilitation Institute in Chicago, assessed four different postures; normal, with full ischial support and flat lumbar support; slumped, with pelvis positioned against the backrest; against the back part of the seat without ischial support, with partially removed ischial support and an enhanced lumbar support and standing.

Standing provided the best lung capacity, expiratory flow and lumbar lordosis with the slumped seating posture causing significantly decreased values on all measures.