Pain, discomfort, fatigue, and swelling are not uncommon symptoms among those who spend all day standing on the job. Our Gaithersburg MD podiatrist knows that unfortunately all-day pressure on your feet can result in complications in your shins, calves, hips, thighs, and lower back. To keep these side effects to a minimum, consider keeping these tips and tricks in mind.
Our Gaithersburg MD Podiatrist Recommends Movement At Work
Stay Active
If your job requires you to be on your feet, strive to keep them moving. The negative strain of standing is exasperated when one is immobile. Without movement, the blood flow to your muscles is restrained. Other bodily fluids will also not flow properly unless your leg muscles contract, so make an effort to occasionally march in place, stretch, or rotate your hips in a figure-eight fashion to induce blood flow and movement.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Footwear options today are often tailored to meet the needs of certain professions, especially when all-day support is required. If the shoes found on store shelves do not meet your needs alone, our Gaithersburg podiatrist can help to design custom orthotics to support your feet. Not only can orthotics improve comfort, but they can also work to improve posture, support your ligaments, and relieve stress on your joints. If you suffer from heel or forefoot pain, custom orthotics can be especially helpful in meeting your unique needs.
Best Shoes & Socks For Standing, According To Gaithersburg Podiatrist
Accessories & Alterations
Compression socks may be a helpful investment, too. Compression socks are composed of strong elastic that effectively reduces the diameter of distended veins, increases blood flow and valve effectiveness, prevents blood clots and lower leg ulcers, and decreases impairments to the venous walls. Worn more commonly than in the past, the selection and brands of compression socks has increased dramatically in recent years.
It is also worth considering what you are standing on all day. If you find yourself often on hard floors in a stationary area, requesting a cushioned mat can have a profound influence on keeping discomfort and inflammation at bay.
Take A Break
If you must stand all day, be sure to take advantage of opportunities to sit and rest. Pregnant women especially should not be on their feet for extended periods of time. It is recommended when they sit after standing throughout a given shift, that they not only sit, but also elevate their feet.
If your profession requires long hours of standing, our Gaithersburg office looks forward to consulting with you about the best techniques to minimize stress on your feet!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office location near Gaithersburg MD, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
