Crossing your legs as you sit is something that we have been subconsciously groomed into doing from birth. If you pay close attention, most women on TV, our mothers, aunts, even our teachers all sit with crossed legs. This has always been considered the ‘lady-like’ way to sit, and the chances are when you sit you don’t even realise that you’re doing it. But is sitting with your legs crossed really good for your health?

If you suffer from back pain, crossing your legs could be the culprit! Experts suggest that sitting this way can lead to the rotation of one of your pelvic bones. Putting unnecessary pressure on your neck and lower and middle back, causing you undue pain. So to help prevent a visit to your local chiropractor, make sure you are keeping your legs uncrossed while sitting.

Studies have also shown a link between crossing legs and a temporary rise in blood pressure. Don’t be alarmed however, having your legs crossed isn’t going to cause permanent hypertension, but if you already have high blood pressure you may want to avoid an unnecessary increase.

Sitting in this position is also believed to be the cause of spider veins, as having one leg over the other causes added pressure and could weaken or damage the veins responsible for carrying blood back to your heart. Although there has been no conclusive data to suggest sitting this way can cause spider veins, some experts believe that there is a link between the two.

So think before you sit, and try to avoid crossing your legs for improved health and wellness.