Hacker News Reader

For someone who has a herniated disc in the lumbar spine a stand-up desk has been life changing.

I genuinely think if I'd had such a desk before and stood for say 20 minutes in the hour I wouldn't have got into the mess I did with my back.

While some of the benefits may be over-stated I am convinced variety during the day (sitting and standing) significantly benefits the spine.

Agreed. I think variety is the key.

I also have a herniated disc (L4/L5) and need to get up every half-hour or so for a quick walk. Works wonders.

When I started working standing up the first months were painful for my muscles.

I realized my entire body was changing, and after those months I enjoyed it a lot. It improved my posture and people realized.

My health improved. I was already healthy but had back pain at some times in the past and it disappeared completely.