Do your feet hurt from standing all day? If you’re wondering how to stop foot pain from standing all day, the good news is—it’s possible and you’re definitely not alone. As we spend a majority of our waking hours on our feet and moving about, overall foot and ankle health is essential to one’s wellbeing. Whether you’re a teacher, a retail worker, a nurse, or even just someone doing the dishes at home for hours, standing for long periods of time can put a lot of stress on your feet. Over a period of time, this pain can snowball into more serious issues such as flat feet or Achilles tendon pain.
Foot pain can easily be mitigated however when dealt with sooner rather than later. With a few simple adjustments, you can protect your feet and ensure you keep moving with ease. At Central AR Foot & Ankle Specialists (CAFAS), we’ve helped countless Arkansans find relief and get back to what they love most, pain free.
1. Choosing the Right Shoes
The first step in learning how to stop foot pain from standing all day is taking a closer look at your footwear. A large majority of foot issues stem from your choice of footwear. If your shoes aren’t offering the support your feet need, that means your feet are doing extra work they aren’t supposed to do. Look for shoes with:
- Cushioned Insoles
- A Wide Toe box
- Arch Support
Bonus Tip: Custom orthotics or shoes designed for the activity of your choosing will do wonders for your overall feet health.
2. Take Breaks
Giving your feet a break even for as short as 5 minutes can help relieve pressure and help blood circulate. When you start to feel your feet hurt, consider:
- Elevating your feet
- Sitting and stretching your toes
- Briefly removing your footwear
3. Switch Up Your Standing Surfaces
This may sound complicated and harder than it actually is. In your workplace or even in the comfort of your own home, you might find yourself standing on hard concrete floors or tiles for hours at a time. Switch out your workspace flooring or the area around your kitchen sink with a softer surface or something that offers cushioning, such as:
- Thick socks for padding
- Gel inserts for your shoes
- Anti-fatigue Mats
This simple change can significantly alleviate foot pain from standing all day.
4. Take Time to Stretch
Standing too long without much movement can cause tightness in your muscles, especially in your calves and your Achilles tendon. We highly recommend incorporating these stretches into your daily routine:
- Toe Raises
- Ankle Circles
- Calf Stretch against the wall
5. Listen To Your Feet
This may come off as common sense, but a lot of our clients often overlook just what their bodies are telling them. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. If you’re noticing:
- Swelling
- Heel Pain
- Joint stiffness
- Numbness
You might just want to talk to a specialist. Conditions such as arthritis, flat feet, bunions or sprains don’t just go away, nor do they appear out of nowhere. They come over a long period of neglect.
Moreover, as emphasized by Harvard Health, consistent foot care habits like stretching, proper footwear, and rest can make a significant difference. Their guide on avoiding foot pain complements the tips shared above.
In Need of Help? Visit us at CAFAS
Don’t overlook the importance of your feet. If you’re starting to feel pain and discomfort or if you’re wondering how to stop foot pain from standing all day, let us help! It’s time to get some real relief and with us Central Arkansas Foot and Ankle Specialists, we understand the importance of foot health and proper footwear. If you’re experiencing foot pain or need expert recommendations, our team in Conway, Arkansas, is here to help. Call (501) 483-0900 to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward healthier, pain-free feet!