Many people spend much of their work day sitting at a desk in front of a computer. Now, since you aren’t really physically exerting yourself during this time, it may seem like sitting there shouldn’t cause pain or physical problems. After all, you aren’t swinging a hammer or lifting anything heavy – you’re just sitting, right?
Well, the truth is that sitting in front of a computer all day can cause pain and create health problems. One of the most common side effects of sitting at a computer for extended periods of time is neck/shoulder/back pain, due to poor posture.
It may sometimes lead to foot pain also, because the foot is not being used as regularly as it would in a job that requires standing or moving around. When you do start to put your feet to more use, you may find that this is painful. For example – you may notice that you find it difficult to walk long distances without stopping frequently. Your feet need time to adjust from long periods of non weight bearing inactivity, to suddenly being subjected the opposite – a long period of weight bearing activity.
Foot Pain Problems
One type of foot pain is known as metatarsalgia. It most often occurs in the middle portion of the foot, between the arch and the toes. It can take the form of pain at the instep area, but more commonly is experienced as pain or discomfort under the ball of the foot.
Sometimes foot pain is caused by a callus. A callus is an accumulation of dry skin. Pressure against the bone can cause a callus to develop. Most commonly, calluses are located on the bottom of the feet.
If your feet hurt, often the culprit is your shoes. Shoes that don’t fit properly are the source of foot pain for many people.
Shoes can cause foot pain if they are too tight or too loose. Shoes that are too tight can put excessive pressure on the feet, causing pain. Shoes that are too loose, on the other hand, allow space for the foot to move around inside the shoe, allowing for sliding, rubbing, and friction.
Pain that is located on the bottom of the foot could be the result of joint inflammation or a torn ligament. If you are experiencing pain, you should consult with a doctor to further investigate the problem.
Foot Pain Solutions
If you are experiencing foot pain, there are some simple, practical steps that you can take to relieve your pain. First, consider wearing shoe inserts – these will help to distribute your weight more evenly across both feet, so will help to make the transition from sitting to standing & walking more comfortable too.
If calluses (hard skin), are the source of foot pain, shoe inserts can also help to reduce or eliminate these specific areas of pressure under the foot. If you have calluses, you can also try soaking your feet in warm water, to soften the skin & then use a file or pumice stone to remove the hard skin. Note: if you suffer from circulatory problems, or if you are diabetic, always seek medical advice first & do not treat these yourself. Calluses in a person whose circulation is compromised, can be the symptom of other underlying conditions e.g ulcers, so should always be treated with caution.
Shoe inserts can be purchased over the counter, and are slipped inside the shoe to provide extra support. You can also get custom shoe inserts that are made specifically to fit your feet and give you the personalized support that you need. These inserts also help to provide stability & balance for your joints, and also help to promote better posture – even while performing a sitting job!
One of the most important steps you can take to care for your feet is to wear shoes that fit properly. They should be long enough, but also wide enough that they don’t cause the feet to cramp. When you have a sitting job, wiggle your toes & move your feet regularly to promote better circulation. Get up & move about the office as often as you can. Use the stairs rather than the lift etc.
You should have your feet measured by a professional at least once a year, since you can change sizes over time. You may find that you are wearing the wrong size shoes. If this is the source of your pain, it is a simple remedy.
As often as possible, choose shoes that do not have a heel. If you must wear a heel, choose heels that are no more than two inches tall at a maximum.
If you are suffering from foot pain, visit Foot Solutions. We can professionally fit you with the right size shoes and help you select a comfortable pair from our wide inventory.
We also can fit you with customized shoe inserts so that you get the absolute perfect fit. Stop by Foot Solutions to learn more about our products and services today.
