If you have a job that requires you to stand all day, you are at a higher risk of foot problems such as corns, hammertoe and plantar fasciitis. It's important to remember, however, that you are not doomed to suffer from these conditions. By caring for your feet properly, you can reduce your risk of pain and injury. Here are a few foot care tips to get you started in the right direction.
Wear orthotics in your shoes.
Orthotics are specially designed pads that provide extra cushioning and ensure your foot is in the proper position while you stand. When you're standing for 8 hours a day, orthotics are very useful in preventing injuries such as tendonitis and heel spurs. Purchase generic orthotics in the store, or visit your foot doctor to have a pair made to perfectly suit your feet.
Soak your feet in Epsom salts each night.
Epsom salts are excellent for soothing foot pain, and they also help soften calluses. Prepare a soak by dissolving a handful of Epsom salts in a bucket of warm water. Let your feet soak for 20 minutes each night to help prevent problems like corns and muscle soreness.
Massage your feet often.
Visiting a massage therapist is lovely, but you can even massage your feet by yourself. Simply use your thumbs to knead the soft tissue along the bottom of your feet. Try massaging your feet for 10 minutes at least twice per week. This will help ease soreness and keep the muscles in your feet loose.
Trim your toenails straight across.
Trimming your toenails in a curved shape may allow sharp corners to form. When these corners start growing into the flesh of your toe, you have ingrown toenails. Trim your nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. Also, wear shoes that don't press on the top of your toes to avoid this condition.
Elevate your feet each night.
When you stand all day, fluid tends to pool in your lower legs and feet, making them feel stiff and sore. Sitting with your feet elevated for 30 - 60 minutes each night will help drain this fluid out of your feet, reducing swelling and soreness. Lay back in a comfortable chair, and prop your feet up on a footstool. You deserve it!
Following the tips above will help keep your feet healthy, so you can keep on working. Most foot problems start off minor, and then become worse if you don't treat them. If you do develop foot pain that lasts more than a couple of days, make a visit with your foot doctor promptly, so you can have the condition treated before it gets any worse. For more information, contact a facility like Mid Nebraska Foot Clinic.
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