Of all the work-related injuries that occur, 25% are foot related such as falling or tripping, or directly injuring the foot with a laceration, puncture, or sprain. However, many foot problems can also be caused by working conditions such as hard floors and prolonged standing coupled with inappropriate footwear.
All large percentage of the work force in the United States spend the majority of working hours on their feet which can lead to aching feet, blisters, rheumatism, arthritis, fallen arches (flat feet), sprains and other adverse side effects. Using proper foot wear during work can not only reduce negative side effects of hard working conditions, it can also help to improve posture.
Proper shoes for work should:
- Maintain a dry, ventilated environment for feet
- Provide adequate arch support
- Distribute body weight evenly across the feet
- Shoe sole should be shock absorbent and non-slip
- Fit the foot comfortably, not too loose or too tight
In addition to the function of the shoe, it is also a good idea to have your feet measured and buy shoes that fit the larger foot, due to the fact that feet can often differ in size. When selecting shoes, make sure you walk around in them to ensure they are comfortable and evenly support body weight. Along with proper foot wear, it is also important to note that tight, bunched, or too large socks can cause blisters and foot cramping.
Regardless of working conditions, it is important to ensure that you have comfortable, supportive shoes that will enable standing and working on the feet for long hours. Unsuitable footwear can aggravate or accelerate existing conditions and create new problems. If you suspect your feet are suffering from work related wear and tear, don’t hesitate to contact the podiatrist today; Dr. Anderson can discuss options with you and help you create a plan to ensure your feet are receiving the best care possible, on and off the job.