Protecting Your Feet in the Workplace

You spend a good chunk of your day at work. If you have a job that keeps you on your feet (construction worker, teacher, healthcare, etc.) you already understand how important it is to keep your feet from getting sore. But even if you have a desk job, you could be putting your feet at risk if you don’t treat them right!

Here are some tips to keep your feet as healthy and free from pain, fatigue, and injury as possible at your workplace:

• Comfortable shoes. Do your toes have enough room to wiggle? Are your arches properly supported and cushioned? If you’re on your feet for most of the day, comfort is extremely important. If you’re still experiencing pain and soreness by the end of the day, you may need to look into arch supports or orthotics.
• Protective footwear. Of course, if comfiness were the only thing that mattered, you might be tempted to wear your slippers to the construction site. Obviously, that’s not the case! In a more dangerous work environment, a pair of tough work books can prevent accidental stubs, crush or puncture wounds, etc. Good grip from the soles and ankle support can prevent trips and sprains, too.
• Breathable uppers. Trapping your feet inside footwear that doesn’t allow air circulation is a great way to pick up an undesirable fungal infection like athlete’s foot. If your job requires work boots, you might be out of luck here. But if you work a job where “normal” shoes are appropriate, opt for pairs with uppers made of breathable fabrics.
• Cushioned workstation. This tip applies if you work a job that requires you to stand in one spot for most of the day—teachers, kitchen workers, etc. Place a rug or rubber mat at your station so you aren’t standing directly on the hard floor. It’s a simple trick, but it works.
• Toenail trimming. Keep your nails neatly trimmed. Extra-long nails can get pinched, pressed, and jammed—leading to black or ingrown toenails.
• Remember that too much standing or too much sitting with no breaks can be harmful to feet. If you work on your feet, make sure you take full advantage of breaktime to sit and rest. If you work at a desk, remember to get up, walk around, wiggle your toes, and keep the blood pumping at regular intervals.

Let Us Get to Work Helping Your Feet

By following these tips, you should give yourself a great chance to get through the workday with reduced pain and difficulty. However, if you continue to struggle, please give us a call at (949) 364-9255 for an appointment. We’ll gladly evaluate your condition and provide any additional assistance you may require. You don’t have to live with your foot pain any longer!