'Dead Butt': How Prolonged Sitting Affects Your Health
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6 Sept 2024
A new health concern, known as "dead butt syndrome," is raising alarms among medical professionals due to its link with sedentary lifestyles
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This condition, or gluteus medius tendinosis, involves a weak or inactive gluteus medius muscle caused by prolonged sitting or screen time
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Dead butt syndrome can lead to knee injuries, hip pain, and lower back issues
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The condition is increasingly common as more people spend long hours seated at computers or screens
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Dr Jane Konidis from the Mayo Clinic emphasised the serious effects of this condition despite its unusual name
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She noted that the gluteus maximus, a major shock absorber in the body, can cause a cascade of problems if it's not functioning correctly
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These problems may include hamstring tears, sciatica, shin splints, and knee arthritis
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Gluteal amnesia occurs when the glute muscles weaken and fail to activate properly, different from "leg falling asleep" due to nerve compression
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Symptoms may not be felt until engaging in physical activity, such as jogging or hiking
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To address this issue, experts suggest regular physical activity, stretching, and exercises to strengthen the gluteal muscles, which can help prevent the syndrome