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Foot and Ankle Pain in Nursing: Tips for Comfort and Longevity in Your Career

Dominion Ezechibueze — miniontraining.com

Sep 14, 2023

Whether you’re doing 3 or 4 12s, the Nursing profession is extremely demanding and requires long hours on your feet, often in high-stress environments.

Regardless of how rewarding, nursing can also take a serious toll on your body and mind. A frequent complaint among nurses is their foot and ankle pain.

Nurses are on their feet nonstop, and with the ongoing nursing shortage, most nurses aren’t even getting breaks during their shifts, exacerbating their foot and ankle pain.

In this article, we’ll explore the causes of foot and ankle pain in nursing and provide practical tips to help you find comfort and ensure a long and healthy career.

Understanding the Causes

Before we dive into solutions, it’s essential to understand why foot and ankle pain are prevalent among nurses. Several factors contribute to this issue:

1. Prolonged Standing and Walking

Nurses spend a significant portion of their shifts standing and walking. This continuous weight-bearing activity can lead to fatigue, muscle strain, and joint stress, primarily in the feet and ankles.

2. Inadequate Footwear

Wearing improper footwear can exacerbate foot and ankle problems. Many nurses opt for fashionable shoes over supportive ones, which can lead to arch issues, plantar fasciitis, and general discomfort.

3. Heavy Lifting

Nurses are often required to lift and move heavy patients, which can strain the muscles and ligaments in their feet and ankles, leading to injuries.

4. Irregular Shifts

Working irregular hours, including night shifts, disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm and can lead to increased discomfort and musculoskeletal problems.

Tips to Alleviate Foot and Ankle Pain

Now that we understand the causes, let’s explore practical tips to alleviate and prevent foot and ankle pain in nursing:

Invest in Quality Footwear

Choosing the right footwear is crucial. Look for shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption. Brands like Dansko and Brooks are renowned for their nurse-friendly designs. It’s also advisable to have multiple pairs of shoes and rotate them to prevent wear and tear.

Custom Orthotics

Consider getting custom orthotic insoles designed to address your specific foot needs. A podiatrist can create these inserts to provide extra support and comfort tailored to your unique anatomy.

Compression Socks

Compression socks can help improve circulation in your legs and reduce swelling. They’re particularly useful during long shifts. Make sure to choose the right level of compression, as recommended by a healthcare professional.

Stretching and Mobility Exercises

Incorporate stretching and mobility exercises into your daily routine. Practicing these exercises routinely can help maintain flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and significantly reduce your foot and ankle pain.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight puts additional stress on your body and exacerbates your foot and ankle pain. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise can help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions.

Ergonomic Workstation

Ensure your workstation is ergonomically designed to minimize strain on your body. Use anti-fatigue mats to reduce the impact of prolonged standing and consider requesting adjustable equipment if necessary.

Proper Lifting Techniques

When lifting patients or heavy objects, use proper body mechanics to minimize the strain on your feet and ankles. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and use the strength of your legs and core to lift.

Rest and Recovery

Give your feet and ankles time to rest and recover after long shifts. I know there’s this stigma that if you aren’t exhausted during your shift, you are “weak.” Start to prioritize your health so you can be able to provide optimal care. Elevate your legs when possible to reduce swelling, and consider ice or heat therapy for sore areas post-shift.

Regular Check-Ups

Schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist to monitor your foot and ankle health. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming chronic problems.

Supportive Work Culture

Advocate for a supportive work culture that prioritizes the well-being of healthcare professionals. Encourage your workplace to provide ergonomic solutions and educational resources on foot and ankle health.

Conclusion

Foot and ankle pain should not be an accepted part of a nursing career. You’ve got way more intricate situations during your 12-hour shift to be constantly troubled by your foot and ankle pain. By following these proactive steps mentioned nurses can ensure longevity in their rewarding profession.

Remember, your well-being is essential to providing the best possible care to your patients.