Nurses spend much of each shift standing, walking, and moving quickly across hard floors. These demands can place repeated pressure on the feet and ankles, especially during long shifts with limited chances to sit. Pain can develop in the heels, arches, or balls of the feet. Nurses can also experience swelling, muscle fatigue, and sore ankles. Plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, can cause sharp heel pain. Tendon injuries and stress fractures can also occur when repeated strain exceeds the body’s ability to recover.
Several job-related factors can increase the risk of foot pain in nursing. Long shifts give the feet less time to recover. Hard hospital floors increase the force that travels through the legs. Shoes that lack proper support can add strain, and a narrow toe box can crowd the toes. Poorly-fitting shoes can also cause blisters, corns, or ingrown toenails. Nurses who change how they walk to avoid pain can place added stress on another part of the foot. Persistent discomfort can make it harder to complete rounds, assist patients, and respond quickly.
A podiatrist can identify the source of pain by examining the feet, checking joint movement, and reviewing work demands. X-rays or other imaging tests can help detect fractures or joint damage. Treatment options include custom orthotics to improve support, padding to reduce pressure, or a brace to stabilize an injured area. A podiatrist can also recommend work shoes with proper cushioning, enough toe space, and a secure fit. Guidance about replacing worn shoes can further reduce strain. Early care can keep a minor problem from interfering with mobility or becoming more difficult to treat properly. If you have foot pain from standing for long hours on the job, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our doctors from Hamilton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
