As a profession that protects and help people, you often forget to help yourself. This blog post is to help to keep your feet healthy during times that you may be up and on them more often. We want to keep you on your feet and doing your work like the superheroes you are! Sore feet don’t stop when you’re busy!
Being on the front line during this time, there will be an increase in workload and stress on your feet. You will no doubt be spending more hours than you normally would, placing extra stress through your feet. This sudden increase in activity can often cause pain.
Footwear is an essential aspect to consider. Safety boots are not always the most comfortable- I am sure you would rather be wearing trainers which offer more cushioning. The cushioning materials, or dual density midsole, will help offer greater support and protection from the increased workload. Callus forms on the foot due to areas of high pressure and can often lead to a painful corn -a small hard ball of callus essentially, generally overlying a bony area, such as your toes. It is quick and easy for us as podiatrists to treat a corn, but in times when it is more difficult to see a podiatrist face to face it is best to keep on top of the callus early with a pumice or foot file - these are best used when the skin is dry! Additionally, a foot moisturizer cream with a high urea content will help break down the callus. See our blog post for more info on how to treat these issues at home.
Foot pain, such as in your heel or arch can be very common with the increased time spent on your feet. Poor foot mechanics, increased load, unsupportive footwear, and weak foot muscles are common causative factors to consider. Strengthening exercises, strapping tape, and even orthotic therapy can help to reduce the forces creating this pain. If your knees are getting sore this may also be indicative of incorrect footwear or weakness in the foot and leg due to the increased workloads.
Here are some strengthening exercises that may help:
Make sure that when you get home- take off your shoes and give your feet some TLC.
Please reach out if you need some specific advice, as we have video conferencing and phone appointments available.
Thank you for your ever-appreciated work, Fire Service!
Resonance are here for you every step of the way
By Resonance Podiatrist Caron Orelowitz
