While the work-at-home work model is on the increase, a lot of people still have to stand at their jobs. You could be a retailer, a tireless teacher, or a busy bartender, so your legs and feet bear the weight of your body and go through the motions of your day’s activities.

At the end of the day, you may end up with swollen feet or find yourself constantly in battle with the flat feet force. However, there are a few things you can do to support your feet’s health beyond wearing orthopedic slides after or during your work.

In this article, let’s look at how you can care for your feet and legs after a long day of standing.

Wear Supportive Shoes

Footwear comes in different shapes, sizes, and styles, with some more stylish than others. Sadly, not all shoes support foot health. Either they are too flat, or they fit poorly. You should look for shoes that:

• Have a good arch support
• Come with extra cushioning
• Give a snug fit
• Have a wide-toe box
• Have a flexible sole that supports natural foot movement

Extra points: If the shoes are non-slip and come with a removable insole, you can easily add orthotic inserts. The right shoes should offer a balance between cushioning and support.

Pamper Your Feet

Create your own foot-pampering paradise at home. Fill a basin with warm water, toss in some Epsom salts, and maybe a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

Soak those tired feet for about 15–20 minutes while you catch up on your favorite show. Simply massaging your feet with foot oils also works.

Another top tip that works magic is to roll a tennis ball under your foot. It’s like a mini massage for your arches. Start at your heel and roll forward to your toes, applying gentle pressure.

Get Some Movement in

Guess what? Not just your body needs stretches. Your feet do as well. Incorporating a few simple foot and leg stretches into your daily routine can be the difference between an elegant gait and walking with a limb. Try:

• The calf raises by rising on your toes. Hold for a few seconds, then lower. Repeat about 10 times.
• Ankle rotations, where you sit down and draw circles with your toes. Go clockwise, then counter-clockwise.
• Hamstring stretch by sitting on the floor with your legs straight, and try reaching for your toes.

Remember, stretching shouldn’t hurt.

Take Breaks and Put Your Legs Up

Try to take breaks from standing. When you get a chance, prop your feet up. Ideally, this should be after work. Use a wall or a stack of pillows to hold your leg up. Leg elevation helps reduce swelling and promotes better circulation.

Try Compression Socks

Compression socks aren’t just for grandma anymore. These game-changers help improve blood flow, reduce discomfort, prevent foot and leg fatigue, and prevent varicose veins.

Bottom Line

Standing all day doesn’t have to be a drag. Remember, taking care of your legs and feet is a part of caring for your general well-being.

Wearing the right shoes, taking breaks to massage your feet, and incorporating a few stretches can keep your feet well-supported and healthy. If you can go the extra mile, get compression socks to stimulate your feet.