How Footwear Can Help Prevent Strain & Injuries While Standing On The Job!

ARE YOU STANDING ON THE JOB ALL DAY?

Standing is a natural human posture and by itself, poses no particular health hazard. However, frequently working in a standing position can cause sore feet, swelling of the legs, general muscular fatigue, low back pain, stiffness in the neck and shoulders and other health problems.

Each year in Canada, thousands of work-related foot injuries are reported, and an increasing number of sick days are taken because of leg and foot problems. Whether you are working on an assembly line at a factory, working in a warehouse or in construction, making an extra effort to take good care of your feet by having proper footwear can go a long way toward staying healthy and comfortable.

The results of extended periods of standing are discomfort, fatigue and swelling in the legs. The longer you spend on your feet, the more likely you will experience pain in your feet, shins, calves, knees, thighs, hips and lower back.
By not wearing proper footwear, many workers experience severe fatigue, which results in reduced productivity on the job. Additionally, pain and discomfort can also lead to distracted working, potentially causing injuries resulting in slips, trips and falls.

The effects of standing all day can show up almost right away, and prolonged standing or walking can often accelerate health problems and soft tissue injuries. Muscular strain or Musculoskeletal Disorders (referred to as MSD) can lead to injury and is something you want to avoid at all costs.

LOOKING FOR TIPS TO PREVENT STANDING-RELATED STRAIN OR INJURIES?

The number 1 thing you can do to prevent strain-related symptoms of standing on the job is purchasing footwear that is the correct size, fit and with the right support features. Look for footwear with shock-absorbing footbeds and cushioned midsoles. The cushioning from the midsoles is actually what workers are standing on all day, which provides a comfort barrier between the hard surface you stand on and your feet. Having comfortable shoes will help reduce muscular fatigue in your legs and feet and your back.

After buying the right safety footwear, here are some additional tips to consider to help you get through a long day of working on your feet;

• Change positions frequently (walking and stretching)
• Alternate standing with sitting if possible
• Add insoles to your safety shoes and consider orthotics if needed
• Ask for anti-fatigue matting in your work area
• Do these exercises before and after work:
  • Hip rotations
  • Hamstring/Calf Stretch

At Mister Safety Shoes, we have fit and comfort experts trained in making sure that your next pair of safety footwear is the perfect fit and that will provide support and comfort for your particular work and activity. We know that after a long day of work, the last thing you want is to be in pain. You can contact us with any questions you may have, or come by one of our many retail locations!