Analysis of the effects of the prolonged standing and sitting posture on physiological indicators, and the potential impact on health: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Prolonged standing and sitting in the job environment are one of the principal causes of cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders. However, these diseases turn out to be just the results of sedentary postures and little has been analyzed regarding physiological indicators due to extended workdays. The main objective of this study was to do a systematic review and a meta-analysis using PRISMA strategy on the effects of prolonged standing and sitting postures in physiological biomarkers measured in work tasks, simulated workday activities and uninterrupted postures evaluated in laboratory. This study is intended to analyze different effects of prolonged standing and sitting in physiological indicators and its possible impact on human health due to these postures. A total of 46 studies for the seated posture and 29 for the standing posture were selected and included in the 95% IC meta-analysis. Results have proven statistical significance and reliable heterogeneity for the following biomarkers: Amplitude muscle twitch force indicator MTF (p=<0.001; I^2=0%), Mean arterial pressure (p=0.049; I^2=15.09%), Venous refilling time (<0.001; 43.86%), Lower limb volume (p=<0.001; I^2=0%) for prolonged standing in healthy population and Lower leg circumference (p=0.031; I^2=0%), Triglycerides (p=0.007; I^2=15.57%) for prolonged sitting posture in healthy and overweight population respectively.