Many jobs require people to be on their feet for several hours each day. Hairdressers, retailers, nurses, and factory workers are among those who spend all day on their feet.

Standing or walking for extended periods of time puts excessive pressure on your feet and can cause foot ailments ranging from blisters to bunions. Over time, pressure on your feet can also cause back and leg pain as a result of poor posture. Fortunately, by wearing comfortable shoes, stretching regularly, and making sure your feet have proper support, many of these ailments can be prevented.

Foot ailments affecting workers on their feet

If you spend hours every day on your feet, you may suffer from foot ailments including: 

• Achy feet.
• Blisters. 
• Bunions. 
• Calluses. 
• Corns.
• Flat foot.
• Fungal infections. 
• High arches. 
• Plantar fasciitis. 
• Sweaty feet. 
• Toe malformation.

Recommendations for workers on their feet

There are a few recommendations that can help ease the stress on your feet if you spend your day standing or running around.

Proper footwear

If you spend hours at a time on your feet, it is especially important to wear comfortable shoes. Shoes shouldn’t rub or fit too tightly as this may cause blisters, corns, or calluses to form. Shoes should also allow plenty of room for your toes to move. Shoes that squeeze your toes together can cause loss of balance in the toe muscles which can result in an unnatural bending of your toes.

Wearing high heels all day should be avoided, as heels put more pressure on the ball of your foot. This can cause foot pain and may lead to the formation of bunions. If you must wear high heels, try to wear them only for a few hours at a time and switch into a pair of flats halfway through the day.

Where you stand

Standing or walking on a shock absorbent surface such as carpet, is preferable to a hard surface such as cement, and can reduce foot fatigue. Stretching your feet can also relieve foot pain, fatigue, and can help prevent injuries.

Utilizing proper support

Keeping your feet properly aligned and supported can reduce foot fatigue. Orthotic inserts can provide your feet with necessary support and act as shock absorbers, which is especially important if you walk or stand on hard surfaces. They can also help control movement of your feet which can improve posture. Arch supports are also beneficial if you suffer from over pronation or flat feet. Providing support to the arch can help prevent conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

Proper sock selection

Sweaty feet can be uncomfortable and makes you more susceptible to fungal infections. Wearing socks made of a breathable material such as cotton, and changing socks throughout the day can help keep your feet dry. If the skin becomes cracked from standing for extended lengths of time, moisturizing your feet can help keep the skin soft and smooth.

To learn more about foot ailments or how to treat conditions that affect workers who spend several hours a day on their feet, contact your doctor.