Sitting with crossed legs can be dangerous for your health, as explained by an anatomy expert. This habit can cause movement in the hips that increases the risk of blood clots, as well as causing scoliosis and other illnesses. According to a study, about 62% of people cross their legs right over left, 26% cross them left over right, and 12% have no preference.
Staying seated with crossed legs for extended periods of time can cause long-term changes in muscle length and bone location in the pelvis. This can negatively affect the body and cause changes in the neck bones, resulting in one side of the body becoming weaker than the other. Additionally, prolonged stretching of the gluteal muscles can also weaken them.
Sitting with crossed legs can also increase the likelihood of developing scoliosis and cause trochanteric pain syndrome, a common and painful condition that affects the outer thigh. Furthermore, it can cause compression and injuries to the peroneal nerve in the lower leg, which can manifest as weakness when trying to lift the pinky toe and as a dangerous foot drop when it hangs down completely. Although in most cases, these symptoms are short-lived and return to normal within a few minutes.
Although sitting with crossed legs may be beneficial for some people, such as those with one leg longer than the other, the expert advises against crossing your legs if possible. The risks associated with this habit are exacerbated by other common issues such as sedentary lifestyle and obesity. In summary, it is important to take measures to avoid crossing your legs for extended periods of time to prevent long-term health damage.