The basics of shoewear in the workplace

The Right Shoes for Your Job

Finding the right shoes is essential when your job keeps you on your feet all day. Long hours of standing can take a toll on your feet, but with the proper footwear, you can minimize discomfort and prevent injury. The best shoes for prolonged standing feature ample cushioning, flexible materials, and strong traction. Your shoes should be tailored to the specific demands of your work environment, whether that’s in healthcare, retail, a warehouse, or beyond.

No matter your profession, your shoes should provide support, stability, and shock absorption throughout the day. Whether your job requires toe protection or waterproofing, your shoes or boots should be both comfortable and durable.

Avoid the Risks of Wearing Improper Shoes

Wearing ill-fitting or inappropriate shoes during your daily tasks can lead to chronic pain or injury. Here are some common issues that can arise from improper footwear:

• Plantar Fasciitis: A frequent cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue supporting the arch of your foot degenerates. This condition is often felt as pain when first getting out of bed or after prolonged sitting. It’s especially common among workers who spend long hours standing.
• Tendinitis: Several tendons cross through the ankle and into the foot. Any of these can become inflamed, causing pain and potential debilitation. Tendinitis is particularly common for workers who stand for long periods, with Achilles tendinitis prevalent among those who climb stairs or traverse uneven surfaces.
• Traumatic Injuries: Inadequate footwear can result in workplace injuries. Protective toe caps, such as steel-toe boots, are essential when working with heavy objects. Waterproof boots protect your feet in wet environments and shield them from harmful chemicals, while anti-slip tread helps prevent falls on slick surfaces.

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Work Shoes

• Shoes with significant cushioning and stiffer soles are ideal for workers on hard surfaces like concrete.
• Rocker-bottom shoes can provide relief for workers with ankle pain.
• Waterproof boots, made through an injection-molding process, protect feet in wet or chemical environments.
• There are three main types of protective toe-cap shoes:
  • Steel Toe: The most protective but heavy and less insulating.
  • Composite Toe: Lightweight and comfortable but bulkier.
  • Alloy Toe: Lighter and protective but generally more expensive.

Proper Fit is Essential

Footwear sizing can vary greatly across brands and styles. While online shopping is convenient, it’s often beneficial to visit a store to try on shoes in person, especially for those you’ll wear daily. Test various brands and walk around to ensure a proper fit. Look for about half an inch of space between your toes and the shoe’s tip, allowing natural toe movement.

When choosing work shoes, prioritize these qualities:

• Shoes that keep your feet in a neutral, supported position.
• Adequate room for toe movement without crowding.
• Avoid memory foam inserts, as they may lack long-term support.
• Choose stiffer shoes with good traction for stability.

Consult an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist

If you’re already experiencing foot or ankle pain from standing all day, or if you’re unsure which shoes best suit your needs, consider consulting with an orthopedic specialist.

Dr. Justin Daigre, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained in foot and ankle surgery, is known for his expertise and patient-centered care. He offers both non-surgical and surgical treatments for a range of foot and ankle conditions, from bunions to total ankle replacements. Dr. Daigre is an active member of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society and a diplomat of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Since 1972, the specialists at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine have been dedicated to providing exceptional orthopedic care through cutting-edge techniques, personalized patient communication, and education. Our team covers everything from general orthopedics and physical therapy to sports medicine and joint replacement. Let us help restore your mobility and quality of life.