Almost half of the global workforce spends about 75% or more of their workday standing on their feet. This work situation is uncomfortable and can cause foot problems, muscle contractions, and back pain. It can also affect your mental health because you start to become agitated.
1. Select Proper Footwear
Selecting the right shoes or work boots can help you deal with the long work shifts. They should have good cushioning, be the correct size, and have a sole that is wider than your heel to offer excellent support and comfort.
2. Wear Compression Socks
Wearing compression socks helps to relieve the pain you feel after standing for many hours. These socks absorb moisture from your skin and help your back, legs, and feet stay warm and dry.
Keep the socks’ band tight enough to ensure that they do not slip off as you move around. Additionally, avoid making them too tight to avoid causing discomfort to your legs.
3. Fix Your Posture
You are likely to experience pain in your neck, shoulders, and lower back when you stand for many hours. To avoid these muscles, select a good posture that ergonomically distributes weight over your whole body. The proper posture is when your back is straight and your shoulders aligned with your hips and spine. Soften your knees and avoid closing your legs together.
4. Take Regular Breaks
According to health experts, standing for more than eight hours is not good for your feet and body. If your work shifts are longer than this, take frequent breaks and stretch out. It will help your body feel better and reduce the risk of pain and injuries caused by prolonged standing.
5. Regularly Exercise and Stretch
The movements you do at home or on your way to the office might not be enough if you stand all day. Try to do some simple stretches during your breaks. These include shoulder shrugs, shoulder and chest stretch, waist twist, and lower backstretches. They will relax your muscles, reduce pain, facilitate proper blood flow, and reduce the risk of an injury.
6. Change Your Standing Position Regularly
Standing for long hours, even in a good posture, can be boring and tiresome. Therefore, you should make position shifts or tilt slightly after a few minutes. This technique will keep you awake and relieve some discomfort as you work.
7. Eat Healthier
A healthy diet can also make your job easier. It will reduce fatigue, boost your energy levels, and prevent muscle cramping.
8. Drink Water
You should stay hydrated all day if your job involves standing for long hours. This tactic will prevent muscles from seizing and give you more strength.
In summary, standing all day can be very tiresome, painful, and uncomfortable. The above ways can help you conquer your working day and face the next with more energy and strength.
