How to Prevent Foot Pain at Work – Foot Pain at Work
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Foot pain can be an extremely frustrating problem to deal with. If you work in a job that requires a lot of standing or walking, you could be particularly prone to foot pain. Whether you’re a busy professional, a retail worker, or a builder, strain on the feet can take a toll on your entire body.
There are different causes of foot pain. It can stem from an injury or overuse. Regardless, it is important to take proactive measures. Choosing the right shoes and incorporating simple exercises can be extremely helpful. There are multiple techniques you can employ to find relief and ensure a more pain-free work day.
Foot pain can be a constant companion, affecting our daily activities and overall well-being.
Identifying the source of your pain
There are two main categories of foot injuries—ballistic injuries and overuse injuries. Ballistic injuries are due to sudden impacts or external forces. Common examples include fractures, lacerations, and puncture wounds.
Overuse injuries, on the other hand, are caused by repeated strain on the foot. These can affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Common overuse injuries include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, shin splints, corns, and calluses. Overuse injuries develop over time and are usually indicated by pain, inflammation, and discomfort.
By taking control of our foot pain, we can live life with greater comfort and mobility.
Preventing foot pain: What works?
To prevent both ballistic and overuse injuries, your feet need the proper support. Support protects the feet from microtrauma which occurs when the foot excessively pronates (rolls inwards). When this movement is repeated thousands of times a day, your ligaments and tissues become strained and inflamed.
The same features that make for a supportive running shoe also make for a supportive work boot. Opt for a shoe that has a cushioning midsole, laces, and built-in arch support. A good midsole absorbs impact forces that are created when your heel strikes the ground. Laces allow for easy adjustments. They also make your shoes last longer. Lastly, arch support limits pronation and helps your feet work more efficiently.
Overpronation causes common problems like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs.
Stretching and strengthening exercises can also be used to prevent workplace injuries and foot pain. Exercises that target the feet, ankles, and calves help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Simple movements like ankle rotations, toe curls, and calf raises also facilitate improved mobility and balance.
My foot pain won’t go away, what should I do?
If you’ve tried the above tactics and your foot pain isn’t getting any better, you should seek guidance from a healthcare professional. If you ignore your symptoms or try to endure the pain, you could put yourself at risk for something much worse. A podiatrist will be able to take a more in-depth look into your feet, gait, and make recommendations based on your feet’s unique anatomy.
A podiatrist can develop personalized treatment plans tailored to a patient’s specific needs.
For more information on foot pain and how you can treat it, visit ergonx.com.au. Our site has a ton of information on warm-up exercises and what you should look for in a supportive shoe. You can also comment below with any questions you might have!