In the office, on public transport, or at home in front of the television, people often automatically cross their legs. There are many concerns surrounding this habitual position: it is believed that it can lead to varicose veins, worsen circulation, or even harm the spine. As [noted](https://entrevue.fr/ru/sante/croiser-les-jambes-est-il-vraiment-mauvais-pour-la-sante/) by Entrevue, if a healthy person sits with crossed legs for a few minutes, it usually does not cause serious harm. The main problem arises when a person remains in the same position for a long time. ### What Happens to Circulation When crossing legs, some veins may be compressed, causing venous outflow to temporarily slow down. For people already suffering from venous insufficiency, this position can enhance feelings of heaviness in the legs or swelling. However, crossing legs itself is not considered a direct cause of varicose veins, thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. The risk of these conditions is more closely related to other factors — age, heredity, pregnancy, excess weight, certain diseases, and prolonged immobility. ### What Happens to the Back If one sits for a long time, constantly crossing legs in the same direction, the position of the pelvis temporarily becomes asymmetrical. This can lead to tension in the thigh and lower back muscles. However, this position itself does not necessarily damage the spine and is not considered a direct cause of intervertebral hernia. Therefore, specialists advise primarily not to remain in one position for too long and to periodically change posture. ### Why a Leg May Go Numb There is another unpleasant effect. Prolonged crossing of the legs can compress the peroneal nerve, which runs near the knee. As a result, a person may feel tingling or numbness in the leg. Typically, these sensations pass after changing body position and relieving pressure on the nerve. However, if numbness occurs frequently or does not go away long after changing position, it is advisable to consult a doctor. ### The Main Thing — Don’t Sit for Hours Thus, a healthy person does not need to completely give up the habit of sitting with one leg over the other. It is more important to monitor how much time you spend without moving. Specialists recommend regularly changing body position, moving your feet and ankles, walking, and at least standing up for a few minutes approximately every hour. The danger lies not so much in the position of "legs crossed" but in prolonged sitting without movement. Regularly changing position and engaging in some physical activity helps reduce strain on muscles, nerves, and circulation.
