Human Factors/Ergonomics Professional Community

 View Only

  • 1.  Can sitting with your feet tucked under you contribute to knee or leg discomfort?

    Posted 6 days ago

    I've noticed that many people naturally sit with one or both feet tucked underneath them while working at a desk. It often feels comfortable at first, but I was curious whether this habit could contribute to knee or leg discomfort over time.

    From what I've found, the position may increase pressure around the knees and ankles, reduce movement, and encourage prolonged joint flexion. While it isn't necessarily harmful for everyone, staying in the same position for long periods doesn't seem ideal. Small adjustments, regular movement breaks, and proper foot support appear to make a noticeable difference.

    I recently summarized the topic in more detail while researching desk ergonomics. If anyone is interested, here's the article: 

    I'd be interested to hear from ergonomics professionals and practitioners here:

    - Have you seen this sitting habit contribute to discomfort in office workers?
    - Are there any studies or guidelines you recommend on this topic?



    ------------------------------
    Ads Novia
    Dhaka
    +880 1750634986
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Can sitting with your feet tucked under you contribute to knee or leg discomfort?

    Posted 3 days ago

    Ads,

    I think you missed a key point. When the feet are not properly supported the popliteal area behind the knee bears the weight of the leg against the front of the seat pan. I am not a physician, physiologist, or anatomist, but my guess is that this posture could impact underlying structures including the popliteal vein, popliteal artery, and the tibial and common fibular nerves. 

    . 



    ------------------------------
    Keith S. Karn, PhD
    Principal Consultant
    Human Factors in Context LLC
    Philadelphia, PA
    ------------------------------



  • 3.  RE: Can sitting with your feet tucked under you contribute to knee or leg discomfort?

    Posted 2 days ago

    Thank you, Dr. Karn. I really appreciate you taking the time to add that perspective.

    That's an excellent point, and I agree that I should have mentioned the potential role of the popliteal region. The possibility of pressure affecting the underlying vascular and neural structures adds important context to the discussion, especially when foot support is inadequate for prolonged periods.

    I'm still learning and researching workplace ergonomics, so insights from experienced professionals like you are extremely valuable. Thank you again for expanding on the topic.



    ------------------------------
    Ads Novia
    Dhaka
    +880 1750634986
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


Related Content