1. Buy better shoes. You need something with a really thick and comfortable sole. You will also want something that is high enough on your foot as to give you some ankle support. I reccomend running shoes (look for "cross trainers" - they do come in solid black as most jobs require and buy the good ones - $100 is worth it for the sake of your poor feet!)
2. Use a "stress" mat, if your store has them (or insist that your store gets some) - even though they seem a little silly or worthless the difference is HUGE.
3. Move while you work. I work in a place where I have less than a foot all around me, but I keep moving my whole body, especially my feet all day long. Stretching, propping your feet up one at a time, and even dancing around can give your feet a break while you work. Yes, customers think it's silly, but if you can laugh at yourself, you'll be fine.
4. TAKE YOUR BREAKS SERIOUSLY. Go to the breakroom right away, and SIT right away. Don't go buy food. Don't go for a smoke. Don't stand around and chat. That time is there to get you off your feet. If there's no one in the breakroom, pop your shoes off and give yourself a minimassage - if you can take your break outside, especially after it's rained, popping your feet in a puddle is a miracle, and downright orgasmic.
5. If you have money (unlikely) - consider seeing a foot doctor and getting orthodics. Or if you can, save up for them. A comfy shoe is your best bet in the short run, but in the long run, having the exact proper support is best. A foot doctor will usually consult for free, allowing you to find out the cost and if you've worked at your store long enough there might be insurance that could cover the cost. Appearently, not everyone you work with (including fat people) experience pain when they stand for a long period of time - you may have something wrong with your feet.
6. Take *gentle* painkillers, like advil or tylenol. Not only do they reduce swelling, but they will help mask the pain for you during those extra long shifts. Take then during your break (I really recommend taking one of each, as they work on different parts of the body. Do not take too many of either at one time or you could get very sick!)
7. Ask to do returns, or cleaning. A lot of your foot pain is caused by standing still. Doing a fast return for a minute or two will totally make you feel better.
8. Ask to go get a drink or go to the bathroom. Don't do this often - it's sort of generally frowned upon. But if the store is not busy and you really really need a break, take a few seconds do "sit down" even if it's on a toilet. Also, if you're prone to being tense, p****g tends to relax you, which will help with the overall pain.
9. MAKE SURE YOU ARE LIFTING THINGS PROPERLY. If you have to reach so far that your elbows are in front of your rib cage, you should lift one foot off the ground. If you must lift a heavy weight from the ground, lift with your knees. Always face what you are about to lift square on, and turn by turning your legs (pivot on the balls of your feet), never twist while you lift.
10. When you are resting at home, prop your legs up with blankets or a pillow - this will reduce swelling. You can also give your feet a cool bath after work, though you may feel 'pain' from doing so. Foot massage will also help you relax the muscles and tissues in your feet.
If all these things do not help, and the pain (especially in your lower back) gets worse, you should see a doctor - if you have a slipped disk in your back, the pain may be coming from there, and not from your feet! (the two in combination can feel like it's all foot related).
Answered By: SilverLynx - 8/28/2010 |