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I’m in pretty good shape for a 62-year-old guy. But six years ago I was in a bad way.
In 2004 I had back surgery to repair a herniated disc. The operation triggered a massive flare-up of my arthritis, a condition that hadn’t really bothered me too much before then.
I don’t know if the surgery sparked a wildfire of inflammation throughout my entire body — or if the postoperative painkillers and other medications triggered it.
All I knew was that I hurt like crazy all the time, especially in my lower back and right hip. There wasn’t any position that gave me relief, except lying flat on my back to pillow under my knees.
And sitting in a chair put me in misery.
Why? Because I sit in front of a keyboard most of the day — every day.
After surgery, being in a chair made my hips and lower back hurt like the dickens.
It didn’t matter if I leaned against the backrest, or tucked a pillow in the small of my back, or sat on the edge of the seat. The compression on my lumbar vertebrae from sitting — and inevitably, sinking into a slouch — squeezed the nerves in my spine and sent pain shooting down my legs.
When I reported this to my physical therapist, she didn’t seem the least bit surprised.
“It’s because your core muscles are so weak,” she said matter-of-factly. “Instead of holding up your torso the way they should when they’re strong, you’re collapsing in on yourself. Your poor lower back is bearing all the weight. And you’re a pretty big guy.”
I raised my shirt and showed her my hard-earned six-pack abs, the result of daily sit-ups, crunches, and leg lifts. I prided myself on having the abs of a 20-year-old, even though I was now officially an AARP card-carrying “senior.”
A day never passed that I neglected my abdominal workout. I’ve been doing it since my football days, refining it over the years and experimenting with different exercises. For instance, I once had a pair of metal ankle braces that had hooks attached so I could hang upside down and work my abs against gravity, touching my forehead to my knees.
My therapist wasn’t impressed.
“Those aren’t the muscles I’m talking about,” she said. “Your core muscles are under your abs. You can’t see most of them — and they’re completely undeveloped in 99.9% of people today. That includes you.”
But not as much as what she said immediately after…
“There’s a good chance you hurt your back doing all those sit-ups. They’re terrible for people.”
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Before I could protest, she added: “But don’t worry. We’ll have your core as strong as the rest of your midsection in no time flat. And we’ll start with this…”
She wheeled over a strange-looking contraption. “From now, on I want you to sit on this when you’re working instead of a chair,” my therapist said. It was a large ball nested in a sturdy frame on rollers. “Sit on it?” I wondered how this was going to make my back and hip stop hurting. |
In the weeks that followed, I learned a lot about the body’s important “core.” These are the muscles that run through our trunks, from the top of our legs to the middle of our chests.
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They include the large muscles of the midsection such as the abs and the lower back muscles (erector spinae). But more important are the obliques and the pelvic floor muscles, including the psoas, a long, thick muscle that connects the pelvis to the spine and holds it in position. (The psoas is the muscle that allows you to perform a “pelvic thrust.”)
This group of muscles surrounds the spine and is supposed to support it, taking most of the load off the vertebrae in joints. Take them away, and our middle would be like a jellyfish. |
Unless core muscles are exercised and strengthened, they go flaccid and atrophy. (“Use it or lose it” strikes again.) This puts all the weight of the upper body on the lumbar vertebrae and hip joints, forcing them to carry the entire load.
Guess what happens next? The discs between the vertebrae and cartilage in the hip joints get squeezed under all that pressure. Movement grinds away this soft tissue. Before you know it, bone is rubbing against bone, causing painful inflammation.
The result is a chronic backache and sore, stiff joints that move like rusty hinges. Good posture is destroyed. Mobility is limited. And you’re more likely to lose your balance and really hurt yourself.
But a strong core makes life much easier. That’s why core-strengthening workouts such as Pilates and Gyrotonics are all the rage today.
It isn’t because so many more people want flat, well-toned tummies (although core-strengthening does produce this) as much as they want their good posture back — and to stop hurting (or prevent it the first place).
They’ve learned the hard way that today’s comfy, sedentary lifestyle is perfect for destroying our core muscles.
Many of us sit all day long! We hunch over desks or workstations. Slump behind the steering wheel. Slouch through our meals. Sprawl on the couch or La-Z-Boy in front of the TV at night.
And we aren’t sitting up very straight, either — so our core muscles don’t receive very much stimulation.
After decades of drooping in a chair while tapping on a keyboard, my core muscles were almost as underdeveloped as a baby’s. No wonder my lower back always hurt so much.
And I realized why the disc between L-4 and L-5 had squeezed out like icing between the layers of a cake.
“No more chairs for you,” my physical therapist declared as she introduced me to the odd-looking ball-on-wheels called The Evolution Chair. “Climb aboard!”
I teetered on top of the ball, having to make slight adjustments in my posture to keep my balance.
“You’re getting the hang of it,” she encouraged me.
The first thing I realized was how very straight I was sitting. I had to because there was nothing to lean against.
Then I noticed that my core muscles were making subtle movements to stabilize me. This is called proprioception — a fascinating give-and-take action between the muscles and the nervous system to establish equilibrium.
You see, a muscle is only able to contract or relax. Therefore, two muscles must be involved to create a simple movement, such as extending your arm: Your biceps relaxes while your triceps contracts. To pull an object to you, it’s the reverse: Your triceps relaxes as your biceps contracts.
Balance is achieved in the same way, but by a much more complex series of simultaneous contraction/relaxation actions occurring in multiple muscles, all coordinated by tiny proprioceptor nerve signals connected to the cerebellum area of the brain.
My core muscles were getting a workout while I did nothing more than sit!
And my core-strengthening was enhanced every time I leaned, swayed, tilted, gently bounced or turned my body. Every movement made me stronger.
It wasn’t my imagination, either. I later learned that this amazing action is backed by research conducted by NASA Engineer David Marcarian.
He studies show that sitting like this nearly doubles core muscle activity … reduces undesirable “head forward” posture … and brings abdominal and lumbar activity into a better balance.
Marcarian’s findings also confirm that ball-sitting reduces lower back pain by absorbing the compression that is normally transmitted to the spine while seated.
After my back surgery and my battle with arthritis, I made the decision to dedicate my life to all things healthful — and to helping as many people as I could. (That’s when I began writing as “Jim Healthy.”)
Everything that diminished my health went out the window. And my office chair was one of the first things I let fly.
That was six years ago. I’m still sitting for 6-7 hours per day, but now I do it on an Evolution Chair.
Of course, I still use conventional chairs for meetings and meals. But when it comes to long stretches, you can bet I’m always “on the ball.”
Every second that I’m sitting down, I’m working my core muscles. And it’s effortless.
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These days, after hours at the computer, I’m not cramped and tense. Slouching now feels completely unnatural; perfect posture feels absolutely normal. Best of all, my lower back pain and hip ache have vanished.
And if something gets me a little uptight during the day, I simply have a little bounce on my chair-ball, which settles me right down. (Reason: Engaging your core muscles kicks in the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms anxiety.) But you might want to save the bouncing for when your co-workers aren’t around. It looks like you’re having too much fun! |
The Evolution Chair was initially created for dentists, but anyone can reap the benefits of great posture and a stronger core. Air traffic controllers, administrative personnel, students, teachers, lawyers, and doctors are using it too. I’m seeing them everywhere!
One of the things I love about my role here at MyHealingKitchen.com is that I get to investigate and test all the new health products I hear about — and to tell our more than 30,000 members about the good ones.
Take it from me: The Evolution Chair is one of the good ones.
And its name is really appropriate because it truly represents the “evolution” of sitting.
Its manufacturer, Body Intelligence, is making The Evolution Chair available to all MyHealingKitchen members with this exclusive offer.
Try it for 30 days and see for yourself the difference it makes. If you’re not thoroughly impressed by the relief in your lower back and the new comfort in your hips (as well as a noticeable tightening of your tummy muscles), simply return it for a full refund.
I’ll personally see that you get all your money back promptly. Click here to give it a try…
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P.S. Some of you may be wondering if you’d get the same benefits from sitting on one of those big rubber exercise balls you see at the gym and on TV.
I wondered too — so I tried one. (A couple, actually.)
Problem #1: I couldn’t find a ball big enough that put me at the right height. I was always reaching up to my desk, instead of looking down on it the way I do on The Evolution Chair. Since it can be adjusted (unlike an ordinary ball), people of different heights and weights can experience proper ergonomic seated posture.
Problem #2: Scooting around on a regular ball is awkward and difficult. But because The Evolution Chair is mounted on vinyl wheels, I can roll closer to my desk or turn my chair without slumping or twisting into unnatural positions.
Besides, The Evolution Chair looks more like you’re sitting on a piece of furniture — so people won’t think you’re “weird.”
Give it a try. You’ll see why I like it so much.
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Looks good, Jim. Hope I can do it in next month’s budget…???
I’ve never seen this before, Jim. Soon I
hope to give it a try. My problem is with
spinal stenosis, along with diabetes type
2. Makes me get around on crutches, and I
would love to get away from that.
Thank You Jim for sharing sooo many Life’s Lessons and solutions. You are a true inspiration in so many ways.
JIM
DO YOU THINK THIS CHAIR WILL HELP ME .I HAVE SCOLIOSIS. I REALLY LIKE THE BALL WITH LEGS. I HAVE TO SIT STRAIGHT OR I GET A PAIN. I CAN NOT SIT ON COUCHES OR LAZY BOY CHAIRS.
Good Afternoon Jim,
Good lookin’ Ball! Went to Rebel’s here in, Newcastle, Australia. Could not find “The Ball in a Frame”!
How much would the postage be to Australia (in addition to the $144.00 American?)
thank you, Jim
I also live in Australia and after also having major back surgery 3 times, knee arthroscope & now a fall thhat fractured T12, I HAVE to find my balance and this chair ball on legs looks remarkable, so, what is the cost of sending to Australia OR do you have a representative here?
Please advise asap as I am VERY interested!
Cheers,
Valerie
Cath, Valerie, and those of you in Australia,
Unfortunately, shipping to Australia can be quite expensive, and oftentimes more than the cost of the product itself. This is a great product, and we don’t want the cost of shipping to deter you, but we understand if it does. It has made a huge difference in my posture and I hope that you are able to reap the same benefits.
JH
Hi Jim
Read about your “Ball Chair’ sounds fantastic. I live in Perth, Western Australia and am very interested in getting one of these. I have 3 part time office jobs so I need it to be mobile. Does the chair extend up at al? I am quote short and sit at desks with different heights. Can you tell me how much shipping would be to Craigie, Perth, Western Australia, 6025?
Many thanks
Fay
what is total cost of ball? I called your number and they said they would call me back and that was last week!! fitlynne@aol.com
JIM I WANT YOUR OPINION BEFORE I ORDER THE CHAIR. DO YOU THINK IT WILL HELP MY PROBLEM WITH SCOLIOSIS?
Fay,
The ball can be pumped to fit all sizes – pump it less for someone of shorter stature, and more for a taller person, or for different height desks. Please see my previous comment above about shipping to Australia. JH
Lynne,
We apologize for the delay in getting back to you, but the cost of the ball is $144 plus shipping. Please let us know if you have any other questions, and we do hope you enjoy your purchase!
JIM I JUST ORDERED THE CHAIR. I KEPT WAITING FOR YOUR ANSWER TO MY QUESTION BUT IT NEVER CAME. I HOPE I LIKE IT SO I AM GIVING IT A TRY.I WILL LET YOU KNOW HOW IT GOES.HAVE A GREAT DAY!
Hi, Cath. Unfortunately, the Ball Chair isn’t available down under and costs a small fortune to ship. In a pinch, try sitting on one of those large exercise balls. It’s not the ideal solution, but it’s better than a chair. JH
Hi, Isabel. It sounds like the ball would be perfect for you. You can give it a try and see. If it doesn’t help, send it back for a refund. JH
I’ve been billed for the chair and was sent a notice that I could expect delivery the week of 9/6. Haven’t seen or heard anything since. How do I ceck on this?
Dorothy,
I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you – the chairs were on back order due to the high volume of demand they received. As of Monday, September 13th however, they were no longer back ordered, and should have been sent to you directly from the company, also called Evolution Chair. If you still have not received it, please contact us again immediately and we would be more than happy to look into this for you.
September 23
Jim,
Can you ship the chair to Ottawa, Canada . If so, how much would it cost me. I would also like to know how big is this package. Thank you.
Jim, I am 62 and 6 years ago I was introduced to Nature’s Way Cordyceps for my asthma. The Chinese athletes use it as a enhancement for their breathing. I take 3 every morning religiously. Not only am I off all 12 medications for asthma, but the Drs state lungs clear, maybe you were misdiagnosed. No, as I had all the trappings of asthma…but I tell people the side effect is my arthritis is gone!! About 50 days after taking the 1st dose of Cordyceps, I no longer hurt when I got up from my office chair to go to the printer at work. I could actually spring out of my chair like a 20 yr old.
I can tell you now, I will not stop taking Cordyceps as it keeps me pain free. It is an anti-inflamatory with no side effects. I can’t praise Cordyceps enough.
D Catlin
I do recommend the Ball Chair also because the ball is very giving as far as stress on you buttocks from sitting all day as well as your spine.
D Catlin
It is intriguing to see the benefits .
Please advise how do we get the evolution chair in India .
We like to share this information on
our web site for the benefit of millions of people here .
Thanks a ton for this great information.
Prince Chugh
http://www.mindbodynsoul.com
Jim, how can you help my wife with her cirrhosis of the liver? The Gastroenterologist says the cause is her immune hepatitis condition she has had since 2000.
OCT.24
HI JIM
I HAVE BEEN USING THE CHAIR FOR ONE MONTH AND I LOVE IT.THANKS.
ISABEL
Francisco,
Unfortunatey we are not medical doctors, and cannot give direct medical advice. I would like to advise you to seek a specialist to assist with your wife’s condition. In the future we will have more conditions on our website, including gastrointestinal issues and gluten-intolerance. Sorry we cannot be of more help at this time.
I cant take the chair to work and dont do much work at home, when else would I use it? Not at dinner, when watching tv? It seems like a great idea but Im just not sure when I’d use it. I have scoliosis, and lower back pain and very bad posture
Mariyamma,
The cost of the chair is $144 if you live in the United States or Canada, and that includes shipping. The package is 10 lbs, and approx. 22″ wide x 22″ tall x 7 inches deep.
Hi Jim, I have just signed up with you as my father keeps sending my husband related stuff for his hip problems. My husband Pete is very interested in the ball chair. We live in New Zealand, how do I order one for him
Teresa,
Click on the link below to order your Evolution Chair:
https://myhealingkitchen.infusionsoft.com/saleform/nathnilr
I am 83 and living on SS so buying is out but Have an inventive mind and a shop ,,,will give a try at duplicating the base with wheels , I will not be violating patents as long I dont start selling them ,, but for me and the wife I think I can do it . Unless the manufacturer cares to deal with me .
rigausatserv@hotmail.com
Hi Jim,
how muchfor the evolution
chair including shipping to
New Zealand and how long before
you can ship please.
Russell.
I myself use BackJoy.I learned about it from the healthy back institute.I take it whereever i go.It works on any chair or seat.It takes the pressure off my bad side(right).Another thing that I learned is Inversion Therapy.I have my own table and hang on it ten to fifteen minutes.
Hi Jim
I decided to seek more information on the Internet so I googled ‘Evolution chair’. There is an evolution chair in Australia. It’s a totally different product. It’s at http://www.evocare.com.au/cc30111.html
I thought you find it interesting.
Cheers, Gina
Hi Jim
I live in Australia, too, and have done some surfing. This is what I have come up with
For the people in Australia looking for an Evolution Chair.
I have never purchased anything through either of the sites and cannot offer any comment for or against either. Have a look and use your own judgement.
The chair at this site looks very similar to the Evolution Chair. It’s located in Greater Melbourne.
http://www.ergonomicsnow.com.au/products/exercise-ball-chair
The chair at this site uses a ball in a ring. It looks less stable to me. It’s located in Greater Sydney.
http://www.jasonl.com.au/Products/Bounce-Chair-black.cfm?
I have used exercise balls in gyms. I used one as my desk chair for a time at work and for a time at home. I found that I could slump just fine using a ball to sit on. It was just a ball. It didn’t have a ring or platform to stabilize it. I probably needed a break from the ball and didn’t know it.
There are those that think sitting on a ball is a bad idea: Opinion: Balls as Office Chairs a Bad Idea April 11, 2005 By Peter Budnick
http://www.ergoweb.com/news/detail.cfm?id=1091
It has been 6 years since that article was published. Maybe they have solved the problems in that time. Maybe not. Have a read and use your own best judgement.
Good luck, Gina
Thanks for the post I actually learned something from it. Very good content on this site Always looking forward to new post.
DS, I`ve had arthritis all over my body. I am 57 yrs. old and have had surgery on my shoulder and looks like my hip and my other shoulder is next. I would like to know how to order this Nature`s Way Cordyceps. Please advise. Thank-you for your time.
That is the fitting blog for anybody who needs to search out out about this topic. You notice a lot its almost onerous to argue with you (not that I actually would want…HaHa). You definitely put a brand new spin on a subject thats been written about for years. Great stuff, just nice!