Sitting cross-legged

Whether sitting cross-legged is suitable for everyone depends on individual flexibility, joint health and posture habits.

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Orthopedic experts generally point out that while the position feels natural for some, it is not ideal for prolonged periods and can be uncomfortable or harmful for others, especially those with knee, hip or lower-back issues.

One concern often raised by specialists is the stress placed on the knee joint. When the knees are bent sharply and held in that position for long stretches, the pressure inside the joint increases and the cartilage can experience uneven load. Experts warn that this may irritate the structures around the knee, particularly in people who already have early arthritis or a history of injury. They note that the pressure on the joint is not harmful for everyone, but it can aggravate discomfort in those with reduced joint space or chronic inflammation.