From working on laptops and attending online meetings to gaming and binge-watching television shows, many people spend a large part of their day sitting.
Although sitting is a normal part of everyday life, remaining inactive for long periods may have consequences for our health.
Health reporting published on October 9, 2026, has highlighted concerns about prolonged screen time and sedentary behaviour in relation to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, commonly in the leg.
The message is simple: taking breaks to move throughout the day is an important part of maintaining good health.
What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot develops in a deep vein. It often affects the legs and can cause swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth or changes in skin colour.
One important concern is that a clot can sometimes travel to the lungs and cause a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.
Prolonged immobility can increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in people who have other risk factors, such as a previous clot, recent surgery, certain medical conditions or long periods of travel.
However, not everyone who sits for long periods will develop DVT.
Why Can Prolonged Sitting Be a Problem?
When you remain seated for extended periods, your leg muscles contract less frequently. These muscles help move blood through the veins, so reduced movement can contribute to slower blood flow.
Long periods of inactivity may also contribute to other health concerns, including:
- Reduced daily energy expenditure.
- Stiffness and discomfort in the back, neck and hips.
- Poor posture and muscle weakness.
- Increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular problems when combined with an overall sedentary lifestyle.
The effects depend on several factors, including how much you move throughout the day, your overall health and your individual risk factors.
Five Simple Ways to Reduce Prolonged Inactivity
1. Move every 30–60 minutes
Use a reminder to stand, stretch or walk briefly throughout your working day. This is a practical habit rather than a guaranteed way to prevent blood clots.
2. Walk during short breaks
Walk around your office, home or workplace when possible. You can also use phone calls as an opportunity to stand or move.
3. Exercise regularly
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days, in line with general adult activity recommendations.
4. Avoid long, uninterrupted screen sessions
Break up gaming, online meetings and binge-watching sessions with regular movement.
5. Take extra precautions during long journeys
On long car, bus or plane journeys, move your legs frequently and walk when it is safe and practical to do so. People at increased risk of blood clots should ask a healthcare professional whether additional precautions are appropriate.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Seek prompt medical attention if you develop unexplained swelling, pain, tenderness or warmth in one leg, especially if you have risk factors for blood clots.
If you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood or fainting, seek emergency medical care immediately. These can be signs of a pulmonary embolism.
Do not try to diagnose or treat a suspected blood clot at home.
Conclusion
A healthy lifestyle is not only about exercising for an hour at the gym. It also involves reducing long periods of inactivity throughout the day.
Whether you work at a desk, study online or enjoy watching your favourite shows, make movement a regular habit. Small changes can support better mobility and long-term health, although they cannot eliminate every risk.
