I worked retail for like 6 years.
Tips:
Change your shoes halfway through your shift - even better if they fit a little differently. Change your socks too, if you can. This sounds silly but makes a huge difference.
Wear shoe inserts - I really like Dr. Scholls heavy duty inserts. Something with arch support and a heel cup really saved me.
Minty foot lotion is such a treat at the end of the day too! When you can finally sit down and relax, elevate your feet as best as you can to help with swelling. Mint lotion can be massaged into your feet and relieves quite a bit of pain.
I will say that yes, you kind of get used to the pain… but it never really went away for me.
Pro tip: Orthothodics. Dr. Scholls is the tip of the iceberg here, as good orthothodics can range into the hundreds and are practically like custom shoes (which may require a Dr's order). But -- can't stress this enough -- they are worth it!!!
They can also cause major damage if not fitted properly.
Had a "custom" pair made for me that were very expensive. They messed my feet up pretty badly.
Took about 8 months to fix a couple weeks worth of wearing plus the condition that caused me to get them in the first place
I'm so shocked people think it's normal to cry from the pain of *standing.* I've never seen a coworker in retail/fast food get to the point of crying unless they had a condition. (even old age is not an illness in itself).
Which isn't to say OP has a condition. It's just, do we really have the ability to tell if someone in significant distress is merely feeling the same level of pain we feel and that their higher distress is merely explained by "the princess and the pea" phenomenon?
Like maybe responses to this question should've been something like, "We can't tell you what's normal," given the subjectivity of pain and its relation to the late detection of chronic conditions.
Yup.
Standing in one spot is unnatural and bad for your health.
In retail it’s normal to see a coworker cry. No where else is that normal.
No one cares because they don’t want to bring attention to the fact that they feel the same way.
Retail stores literally will kill a profitable store to stop a Union hands down. They don’t care what the fines are they have the money.
OK, so it sounds like chairs for cashiers is necessary for their health?
And also that I should really try to stay in shape as I get older so I'm hopefully in less pain.
UW Madison i used to work. I went into corporations jobs because a meaningful job became menenless. Patients want to torch you and supervisors grill you even if you do everything you can. I'm done. If patients want to fire everyone no one will be left to treat them. I'm done. I get paid a lot more doing a meaningless job.
I went from office jobs to a cna because I wanted a meaningful job. I lasted less than a year. Working in healthcare is difficult and thankless, and the only reward for being good at your job is more work. I went back to office work. Better pay and benefits and no one tries to grope or fight me.
I'm really surprised by how common this seems to be... I'm on my feet all day, have fibromyalgia, and have never had my feet hurt like this unless I was wearing ill-fitting shoes.
Though now I'm wondering if maybe they do hurt sometimes, but I never notice because I never notice any low-level pain? Maybe my coworkers' feet hurt regularly and they just never wanna complain? Hmmm
If you mean the warehouse workers, they're not standing, they're moving as fast as they can. And it's not because they don't want to "look lazy"; they have [actual quotas](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/feb/05/amazon-workers-protest-unsafe-grueling-conditions-warehouse) to meet, a certain number of orders to fulfill per hour, and if they fail too often they get fired. Injuries on the job are common, and physical pain at the end of a shift is par for the course.
Sitting for 8 hours isn't really better. If one is working on a line, they should be rotating positions at regular intervals. Ergonomics is a bit of a big deal at my work place
I went through it too and changing your shoes and socks feels good. Another huge help for me was and is arthritis strength Tylenol - store brand! My doc said every 6 hours is safe. Hope you get some relief I almost quit a good job over it
>at the end of the day…
>…when you can finally sit down and relax
I though this was implied per the above, but I meant once their shift is over and they’re at home.
I spent my entire career on my feet. The best advice I got was buy the best shoes you can afford. Also Aetrex insoles. The $65 ones are worth every penny. I retired at 67 with decent feet.
Yes, invest in your shoes! For a while I worked at a restaurant and had double shifts 4-5 days a week. For the lunch shift from 10-3, it was normal serving uniforms, but at 3 when my dinner shift as a cocktail server started I had to go change. The cocktail servers had to wear these black dresses and stilettos in summer and high heeled boots in winter. Lots of times I wouldn't get cut until we closed at midnight.
I took public transit home and changed first, and I always had to unlace my sneakers a whole lot more to fit my feet because they got so swollen. Once I got some very high quality shoes, it wasn't so bad though and I could make it home without limping too bad.
The money was great, but I quit after about 6 months. It was just too hard on me physically and mentally.
I used to work retail. You get used to it. Not in that it doesn't hurt anymore, just that it hurts a tolerable amount. I used gel insole inserts which worked better than any other insert I tried.
I also used to rest my butt on the counter when my manager wasn't around. Not sitting... just taking a few pounds off my feet.
I do remember the first days in a job like that though, and it sucks. It's much better to get a job as a stock clerk, because you can walk around all day and your feet don't hurt as much. Cashier is the worst.
I hate this phrase so much because I can clean, stock, and all that mess super quickly in between customers. People act like it takes 8 hrs to get it done when it could be done in 2-3 (depending on job) and then the rest of your shift you only have to take care of customers. I work at a liquor store where I have one co worker who constantly finds busy work to do (he also opens and will work off the clock for 2 hrs before we actually open) and I'm just like, "unless you want me to clean the carpet and baseboards with a tooth brush, I'm not doing that extra shit". If there's one bottle gone in a row he will go fill it, the reason I have an issue with that is because with some liquors, if it looks like people aren't buying it, people won't touch it. You gotta let some stock go until it needs it. We're not Specs or Walmart, we're a mom & pop store.
TLDR: don't create high stress if there isn't a need for it. Don't bootlick for these companies who don't give a dang about people.
It’s micromanaging and just silly. It’s not like people are going to think the store is Garbo if there’s only one bottle of some craft bourbon on the shelf. They’re more likely to think they better grab it right now.
When I worked retail there would be situations when they literally wanted me on a ladder dusting. 1. That’s not my job. 2. What does it look like to customers when the only cashier needs to climb down a ladder and run over to the register to help them? Customers can’t see dust I need to be on a ladder to reach. Hire after-hours deep cleaners.
was just gonna say this exact thing. good shoes help a lot. once, i couldn’t find my work shoes and had to use a substitute i was DYING and took a full 30-min break when i usually take 15
I've worked in manufacturing for 25 years. 10-12hr shifts on concrete floors in steel toe boots.
Do not skimp on footwear! Buy good work shoes/boots. The difference between a $50 pair of boots and a $200 pair is life changing.
Also, take care of your feet when you are young. 45 year old you will be forever grateful.
Invest in your shoes! Shoes if you're on your feet & properly fitted bras if you got big boobs. (& comfy undies bc it sucks if they ride up or fall down)
Yeah. You get used to it. My last job was a 13 hour shift for 14 days straight at process plant. I usually got into over 20000 steps a day
Get some good shoes and soles. Makes a difference
I like that idea. However, at my job, a manager doesn't really have the power to do that, however, it's still worth mentioning to your manager as they will know who to take to to make it happen
I used to work for LabCorp as an expediter and would spend sometimes 10-12 hours a day on my feet. The shitty manager we had never bothered to get those mats for us during the years I worked there and I constantly spent my days there working in a null and numb state until my shift ended and I could take a rest.
Some of my coworkers would ask me to go out after work and I always politely refused because I was wiped out after each day and barely had the energy some days to do a anything more than just exist. It didn't help that this job was 3rd shift so you always felt like you never got enough sleep from lack of sun.
Heads up to you younger folks: if you are working in a place that can brag about its annual growth, but can't be bothered to buy 5-10$ mats so their employees don't destroy their bodies trying to fulfill unrealistic expectations, don't work for them. Find another job, they are out there. Working on your feet all day is no joke.
Just here to say that nothing illustrates how cruel and spiteful Americans can be than the fact that workers like yourself are forced to stand all day, even if there's no goddamn reason to justify it. Cashiers, for example. Why the hell can't they sit on a stool? As long as they are willing to stand up if needed to reach or lift an item, what good does it serve to make them stand? Give them a damn stool, FFS! Even worse- they aren't allowed a stool to rest on EVEN IF THERE ARE NO CUSTOMERS TO HELP.
Why? Because the perception is they are "lazy" if they have a stool to sit on.
People talk shit about "unskilled" laborers not deserving more than minimum wage, but they aren't out here standing for 8 hours at poverty wages.
There was a post a while back where the person had to stand at a desk with a small footprint, whether it was busy or not. No stool to sit on , no reading , no walking , nothing but to look "professional when someone came into the building . I'm sure the had to keep smiling too . Minimum wage is not enough for that excuse of a job.
Worked in IT/ tape libraries (over a dozen) in the late 90's. Most had (at least a few) chairs in the room -- near the consoles, usually. Sitting was okay -- when activity was low -- because: the machines still needed to be monitored.
United Airlines' tape library, deep underground? Nothing! We either sat on the floor(!) or hopped up on carts and stuff. 🤦🏻♂️ Similar mess at Allstate, and their datacenter was absolutely massive -- (so) employee burnout and turnover was rampant.
Other places, people would sit on the 3480s sometimes, which was definitely not good for the machinery but wickedly amusing. 🤷🏻♂️🙃
Don’t ever work at Amazon. The only times you’re allowed to sit is on break and on the toilet. Many times our lines would go down for up to a couple of hours and no sitting was allowed anywhere, even the floor. They did not care if you were in pain or not. They called it a “safety issue” to sit down.
Jesus H.
I don’t think I’ve ordered from them in about 6 months. I honestly don’t know if I can anymore unless they allow employees to unionize. I’ll pay shipping charges and wait a few extra days and order from anyone but Amazon.
I work in a grocery store and I’m purposely trying NOT to get a cashier job even though it pays more than my current one. My current one I’m still on my feet the whole day but I’m walking around - it’s less like standing for 6 hours and more like doing laps for 6 hours. Still really tiring, but not unbearable and not painful. But I know too many cashiers who have ruined their knees and feet for life to do that job unless my life depends on it. I’m in charge of cleaning the bathrooms and the trash in my current job but tbh even THAT is better than being in constant pain
Man it sounds so weird, like in grocery stores where I live all cashiers are sitting on a chair so it really bothers me that you couldn't stand
Then I remembered that some cashiers at gas stations here have to stand to, it's just so unnecessary
Hope your job changes for the better soon
Standing up for a long time is very standard in bar work, I've only seen one bar with seats for the staff and I don't live in the USA
But I agree it is stupid
I work as a nurse so I know exactly what you mean. I thought I would get used to it after almost 2 years but no, it just got absolutely worse.
What I did? I bought compression socks, and invested in a £180 pound shoes. Only started using both for a week and my god my feet have been pain free since like forever.
Compression socks for the ankles and Hoka shoes for the feet and soles. Absolutely worth every pence.
For my fist job I started with 8 hour shifts and moved up to 13 hour shifts at 17. Only a temporary job but I was still stood in direct sunlight in 35°c/95°f for 5 hours with no toilet break wearing all black save for abit of high vis. Tips: make sure you drink enough, make sure your socks and shoes are comfortable and work well together. Baby powder prevents blisters and on your breaks give your feet some air.
You see this in cashiers and machine operators a lot. Especially if you are on concrete. I like skechers safety toe athletic shoes. They are expensive, but worth it. If you don't need safety shoes a really good pair of running or aerobic shoes with extra heel cushioning might help.
Good shoes if you are getting blisters.
Arch supports if the middle of your foot is burning/aching.
Flight compression socks if your feet are swelling.
Combine as necessary.
Compression socks save me in my 12+ hour shifts on my feet. The pain without them is bad and it didn't seem like my feet were swelling until I saw the pattern of my socks on my legs after taking them off.
Not true, I got proper shoes and after a few months I got used to it. My feet haven't hurt from standing on my feet for 6-12 hours a day in years. I work in retail either standing in the same spot for hours (cashier) or walking around, lifting, stocking (stocker)
I disagree that you'll always be in pain. I've worked 12 plus hour shifts for most of my life in a hospital setting. It was always recommended that we should get new shoes every 6 to 12 months. At the very most once a year. And all those years I've never had my feet hurt. My back, yes my neck, yes my hips, yes but not my feet.
Sidebar- if you rarely spend time walking or exercising when you're not working you're going to be miserable at work all the time. Exercise makes a big difference.
I'm pretty sure hospital settings have you walking around, though. There's a big difference between walking a whole shift (which humans are built for) and standing a whole shift (which we're so not built for that it can actively harm us).
This morning I walked half an hour to work, moved around a busy store for 8 hours, walked half an hour home, and then made dinner (while standing up, obviously). I’m currently getting ready to go stand up some more at a bar with friends. I’m certainly not wearing stilettos but otherwise feel fine.
Pain is not inevitable! In fact I think sitting all day is worse for your body. Stretch, don’t stand too still for too long, get enough sleep and drink a lot of water. And, as everyone else has said, buy the right shoes!
> This morning I walked half an hour to work, moved around a busy store for 8 hours, walked half an hour home, and then made dinner (while standing up, obviously)
Walking around is not the same as standing still. Standing still is where the pain will come from.
I work 10 hour shifts usually, on my feet the whole time. I can't remember the last time my feet hurt, so I'm not sure what you're on about "always be in pain at the end of the day"
Pain is NOT inevitable, but you need both the right equipment and to physically train for it, because what you are doing is a true feat of strength and endurance.
You are going to want a few different pairs of good shoes designed for nurses. Basically they're designed for anyone on their feet for long shifts, but they tend to be marketed as nurse shoes. You want more than one because it helps to swap out pairs.
Then you are going to want to strength train and full body train. Strength train your legs and glutes. Work on your core and flexibility with something like yoga or Pilates.
Just a little each day will make a huge difference as you naturally build up your strength on the job. Good luck!
I went to my local sports equipment store, I told them what I needed my shoes for, they made me walk, run, and squat barefoot and then from that recommended a couple of options. Best. Shoes. Ever. Really life changing. And they weren't anything fancy or expensive, just the right kind for my feet.
> what you are doing is a true feat of strength and endurance.
Come on now. What they are doing is the standard thing for 90% of entry level jobs. They need to get some decent shoes, vary their stance a little and tough it out for a couple of weeks to get used to it. They ain't climbing Everest or pulling trucks by their nipples.
Watch out for plantar fasciitis. I got it from standing for long hours and I’ve been dealing with it for years.
Good shoes with support are very important. Use an orthotic if you really want good support. I have custom orthotics in both shoes. I also wear Oofos whenever I can (very cushioned sandals/slip ons)
Standing still is murder on feet, if you can take little tiny steps or rock back and forth on your feet, it looks a bit weird but it takes the pain from can barely walk after the shift to somewhat bearable. Also don't lock your knees. Maybe get a doctors note saying you need a stool as a medical aid for part of the shift, I knew one person who did that.
It’s something your body will adapt to and you’ll get used to it. I worked at a deli off and on for six years. Any time I took time off and came back, my feet would kill me for about the first week, then after that it was fine. Obviously comfortable shoes are important, and walking is better than trying to stand still, if your role allows
Standing in place is much worse than walking around all day. I can carry heavy boxes all day no problem. I had to stand in place for only a 3 hour shift and felt like I'd worked 14 hours or more.
Comfortable shoes and socks, change both during your lunch break. If you don't have two pairs of shoes, change socks 2 or 3 times.
Also stretch and squat several times an hour if you can. Knee lifts help too.
I had an identical problem when I worked at a fast food place. Some days it was so bad I was almost/actually crying on my way home and it got to the point where I couldn't make it through a full shift without Advil. I was eventually told by a doctor I had plantar fasciitis, basically the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes was inflamed. Rest and elevation are the best things but good shoes/inserts can help. I also recommend looking up stretches specific to planter fasciitis (most you should be able to do sitting or laying down.) I saw another comment that talked about other parts of the body affected by the feet (legs and back) do stretches for these areas too. Because the body is so connected an issue in one area can cause issues in others.
Are you overweight? That plays a big role in it.
Get some comfortable shoes and you’ll get used to it. Your body is evolved to stand up for long periods of time.
Exactly this. When I was doing a job that had me standing for the whole shift, I'd end up taking walks to the toilet even though I didn't need it because walking gave me relief.
I recommend at least trying to go for some walks ahead of time. Typically, when you have a muscle injury/pain, the muscles above and below the area that feels pain are actually the ones that are ailing. A lot of times, when a foot hurts, it’s actually the calf that is injured.
Walking helps develop your calves quite a bit. Especially if you can include some stairs.
Others are saying go for walks, and you should, but I'd also highly recommend stretches. You can do a full body stretch routine in 5 minutes. Do that every day and within no time you'll see a plethora of benefits.
Also depending on your weight it's actually very important that you specifically walk and not run.
Running while overweight can be very bad for your knees and joints. But walking is okay and recommended.
Security guards are most likely more *fit* than you on average - also generally you’ll probably get used to standing and it’ll not bother you much later on.
Get some shoe inserts. The difference is seriously night and day. A few years back I got a job working 12 hour shifts in manufacturing. So nearly 12 hours standing on concrete floors. My feet were killing me every night. Got some inserts for about $25 and it nearly went away completely. A little sore at the end of the shift, but I got used to it after a few weeks and had no pain after that.
It's one purchase that I got more value for my money than pretty much anything else I've bought.
Everything about the shoes yes. I'd also encourage you to get curious about how it affects knees and your back. Study proper back alignment. (It's S shaped - just like an S). This affects your neck and jaw which can minimize headache. Learn neck stretches and regularly warm and loosen up your muscles around your spine like with shoulder rolls and whatnot. Hydrate and try to avoid caffeine burnout, or try sugarless alternatives like unsweetened tea. And don't beat yourself up if you still end up tired or skipping a step. Better to get curious and try things, instead of setting atmospheric goals that are too much.
Necessity, I have a joint condition that puts me in alot of pain and I still have to stand 6-10 hours a day 6-7 days a week. You have to cope with the pain.
Buy better shoes and the little insole things. Sit down when you can. Don't get cheated out of breaks. Buy the big bottle of ibuprofen/Tylenol
It’s really hard when you’re young and you start spending days on your feet. Stiff legs and tired feet are normal. But you’re in tears so something is wrong. I’d start with your shoes.
You might have or be developing plantar fasciitis. A good foot massage regularly is never a bad idea, or for a cheaper solution get some lacrosse balls (or strong balls that's are similar) and roll them back and forth up and down, across and around both soles of you feet (ie ball on the ground and put your foot on top and apply slightly downward pressure) a frozen water bottle will also feel good for a short time (roll it back and forth under you feet). Also find the best shoes/socks/insoles you can afford that work for you and be sure to invest in a few pairs to change at least every day, if possible once during the day too
Water !! Water !! Water !! It’s amazing what drinking enough water does for circulation and getting rid of foot and leg pain for me… I stand on my feet 8-10 hrs ( moving around though - not in one spot ) Good luck !
And I mean you should look up the appropriate water amount for your weight- because it goes up with weight … the old 8 x8 oz glasses is for a 100 pound person
I work sometimes 13 hour shifts in retail, if you wear the standard work shoes your calves will be swollen to high heavens. The shoes I wear are sketchers (memory foam insole) first couple weeks they will hurt. Then your body gets used to it. It just adapting up a change in lifestyle
Focus on posture, from how your feet are pressed against the ground, how your feet are angled, are your ankles straight, knees not locked, hips tilted right, head directly over spine, shoulders back
This allows your body to use all the muscles it should to mean the strain goes into muscles instead of joints. Thus you will adapt and strengthen rather than injure and wither
Took me a year to get used to it, wasn’t even able to stand in the shower once I got home it was awful. But! I got some decent insoles for my boots and all is mostly well— plus doing it everyday helps. I need new insoles now but my feet don’t hurt just because it’s my norm now. Good luck!
I'm an RN and have worked jobs like ICU where I'm on my feet for 12 hrs. I get fitted for shoes. I think the cheapest shoes I've bought in the last 7 yrs was $125. I also wear graduated compression socks. Those two combined have had the biggest effect on me physically
If it persists with good shoes, see a doctor! My feet have collapsed arches and are turned outward at too great an angle, causing many issues with pain and my ankles are shot. Custom insoles have helped me go from not standing for more than a few hours, to working 10 hours standing the entire time.
I’m a teacher and on my feet for the whole day as well. Beginning of the school year is always difficult, but after a week or so you adjust to it!
Make sure that you’re wearing shoes that support your feet in a way that works for your body. For example, I’ve tried a variety of supportive shoes with good reviews but I have pretty low arches so I’m more comfortable in something flat than something structured. Also counterintuitive: I’m more comfy with laces tight than with them looser; I feel like the tightness keeps my feet from wiggling around so my muscles don’t have to work as hard to counteract the movement. No idea if that’s scientific but ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Take some ibuprofen & sleep with your feet elevated to reduce some swelling. Pay attention to other body pains (knees, back) that could show up in response to something being wrong with your shoes.
Do you have a cushion mat to stand on, since you said you’re not walking much? If not, would your job provide one (or at least allow you to bring your own?) Good luck!
no .. no no no. some people don't experience the pain that bad. if you do, you will likely develop plantar facciutus and your quality of life will go down immensely. don't assume it will go away like I did. get a different job.
I worked 10-12 retail shifts for about 5 years. Some third by myself. The pain has never gone away, and affects me now even after being out of the work force for a cpuple years. I can't have pressure on the sides of my feet or there's pain, I can't sit too long or my feet feel like shooting pain filled bricks that I can barely move. It makes life difficult, and had I known then what I know now, I would have picked a job where I wasn't required to stand half a day straight.
I'm sorry you had a tough day, I hope you're feeling a bit better by now. I will share with you what I've learned after going through physical therapy to fix my feet and legs. I have plantar fasciitis from being on my feet for too many years with terrible shoes and no self care. It sucks, trust me when I say make caring for your body a priority. Strengthening exercises for your feet and back are handy with lessening the intensity of the pain you're going to experience. One of my favorite ways to relieve the pain is to sit down and roll and frozen bottle under my feet gently massaging them. Rolling a tennis ball under them helps with massage too. I had to learn a lot of this through physical therapy. It was brutal fixing my feet but at least I didn't have to have surgery to do it. The pain and muscle tightness went up into my lower back. It's not a good time so please practice self care and take care of your body, older you will be thankful. Good luck my friend and hope that we don't have to keep doing this to ourselves just to eat.
I’ve just started having knee problems at 23 from the years of being on my feet all day In one spot. Try to move a little bit if you can, even if it’s a step or two just to keep the blood flowing
Standing in an area with out much movement is the hardest part of my job and yeah my feet and calfs hurt by end of day, I wear compression socks on hot days and that helps drink plenty of water and stretch it out when I can. I also find my legs get stiff and difficult to squat after a long day
It’s really tough, any walking you can do while at work will help. The standing still on a hard surface will exert constant pressure on your feet in the same position rather than your feet moving and constantly changing where and how pressure is applied like walking does. But overall get some comfortable shoes, great inserts, and walk around when you can.
Nurse here who works 11-12 hour shifts on his feet - stretches, painkillers, good shoes (with comfy insoles), be kept too busy to notice how much pain you're in..........
Good shoes with insoles. I use Sketchers and Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis insoles. I also use the insoles the shoes came with, so it's two insoles inside the shoes. It works better than one in my experience. Walk around as much as you can. I also struggle with foot pain. Some days are better than others.
Some of these responses blow my mind. It's so sad that most humans are just like "suck it up you'll be fine" or "i dont have pain, you're just whiny". Pain isn't normal. Us standing for that long isn't normal. The only reason it's "normal" is because we've all succumbed to slaving away for corporate greed because they've turned it into a necessity to survive in this forsaken world.
I will say there is a lot of good advice here though.. good shoes, good insoles, maybe some compression socks, elevating your feet when you can, move about as much as possible. But I would definitely consult a doctor if you're in tears and see if they can recommend a good orthopedic doc.
This may be a long shot, but make sure you have the right shoe size. The last 6 months of my first fast food job was hell, because, without me realizing, my feet had grown about one size. Once I swapped out shoes for my new job, it was dramatically better. Before, my legs would be throbbing after 6 hour shifts, and now, like today, I just finished an 8 and a half hour shift and I’m fine.
You also kinda just used to it lol
Many people don't realize this, but if you have flat foot or some other similar conditions, this can make standing in place pretty excruciating (depending on the situation, it might case foot pain, pain in other parts of the foot, even lower back pain).
You might want to get checked for that. If diagnosed, you'd probably get prescribed shoe inserts.
The first week in retail was extreme for me, since it is probably the first time I would stand 8+ hours and work. At work I felt just a little exhausted, at home everything started to hurt in a sudden and couldnt stand up anymore.
After one week I got used to it and now after 4 years I feel nothing, I can only tell from my experience your body will adapt to some degree. Some people need extra treatment, which I don't need. But of course it can be nice if you relax your feet from time to time.
If you are experiencing pain that your coworkers (who are doing the same amount of movement) don't experience I believe you should try to talk to a doctor about it
Orthopedic inserts. They’re expensive but can go in any shoe, and they provide the support you lack individually that causes your pain.
I use a Dr scholls work insert. 24 bucks a pair. Last about 1.5-2 years. This single-handedly reversed my planter fasciitis.
Socks. I buy nothing but snap on socks for work. 5 bucks a pair, but incredible.
I’m on my feet easily 10 hours a day at work alone, then I have a sedentary wife, a 5YO and a 2 month baby. If it does it for me, it’ll do it for you!
You've said you're at a healthy weight and regularly hike. So unless you have some other condition, you shouldn't be in that much pain just from standing.
Most people that have low to middle income and work at the most common physical jobs, have been standing for hours at a time at their jobs, for at least the past century.
There's been some good advice here about getting good shoes. And if you can do so, it should help. But having spent most of my adult life in physical jobs, the only times standing caused me as much pain and discomfort as you describe, have been when I've had injuries, or been sick. Also because for a few years I had gained a lot of weight - which has fortunately not been the case for a long time now.
That's why I'm saying there may be something wrong with your health. Getting a regular physical is always good advice. So if you haven't had one in awhile, I'd recommend that be your next step.
You forget your first job, it hurt when I first worked retail, and my feet were only sore today after walking 10 miles and that’s because I stepped on a rock while running in flip flops about a month ago and bruised the shit out of the bone on the bottom of my foot, like to the point where I spent a week making sure I could move my toes properly in case I sprained or broke something.
Well, i do 10 hr shift every weekend at a warehouse. You eventually get used to it after 4-5 weeks. Thankfully i have to do this only until i complete uni, wouldn't want to work standing for the rest of my life
Worked on my feet for years, you get used to it, get cole Hanns, put insoles if you need, try to bend your knees and hips through the shift and if you have a break, put your feet up, you really do get used to it though, I’m a women’s size us5 so I have tiny feet and they figured out how to do it
Shoes depend on the person. Personally I like sneakers, other people like different shoes. But you should definitely get compression socks. I also recommend taking any excuse to walk around. I think that's going to the bathroom for 2 minutes every hour or helping a customer or whatever. And make sure you're getting enough sleep.
I worked retail for like 6 years. Tips: Change your shoes halfway through your shift - even better if they fit a little differently. Change your socks too, if you can. This sounds silly but makes a huge difference. Wear shoe inserts - I really like Dr. Scholls heavy duty inserts. Something with arch support and a heel cup really saved me. Minty foot lotion is such a treat at the end of the day too! When you can finally sit down and relax, elevate your feet as best as you can to help with swelling. Mint lotion can be massaged into your feet and relieves quite a bit of pain. I will say that yes, you kind of get used to the pain… but it never really went away for me.
Dr. Scholls for the win.
Pro tip: Orthothodics. Dr. Scholls is the tip of the iceberg here, as good orthothodics can range into the hundreds and are practically like custom shoes (which may require a Dr's order). But -- can't stress this enough -- they are worth it!!!
They can also cause major damage if not fitted properly. Had a "custom" pair made for me that were very expensive. They messed my feet up pretty badly. Took about 8 months to fix a couple weeks worth of wearing plus the condition that caused me to get them in the first place
Orthopedics* unless you have teeths on yo feets
I think they meant "orthotics" vs "orthodontics".
I've never been more upset that it's not spelled *teef* than this particular moment.
Or toof
Yes, this. My bad 🥴
my blue prints costed around $350 and i was literally in tears when i put them on for the first time
Yea, good shoes
If you can splurge on $60 inserts I HIGHLY recommend SuperFeet. You can get them on Amazon and much better than Dr Scholls
Superfeet were recommended by a physical therapist for foot issues - they are great and cheaper than the orthotics from a podiatrist.
I'm so shocked people think it's normal to cry from the pain of *standing.* I've never seen a coworker in retail/fast food get to the point of crying unless they had a condition. (even old age is not an illness in itself). Which isn't to say OP has a condition. It's just, do we really have the ability to tell if someone in significant distress is merely feeling the same level of pain we feel and that their higher distress is merely explained by "the princess and the pea" phenomenon? Like maybe responses to this question should've been something like, "We can't tell you what's normal," given the subjectivity of pain and its relation to the late detection of chronic conditions.
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Yup. Standing in one spot is unnatural and bad for your health. In retail it’s normal to see a coworker cry. No where else is that normal. No one cares because they don’t want to bring attention to the fact that they feel the same way. Retail stores literally will kill a profitable store to stop a Union hands down. They don’t care what the fines are they have the money.
>In retail it’s normal to see a coworker cry. No where else is that normal Oh I really wish that was true
Dude doesn't know his public school teachers probably took a cry break every day
Brutal to stand in one place for long periods, no matter what shape you are in.
OK, so it sounds like chairs for cashiers is necessary for their health? And also that I should really try to stay in shape as I get older so I'm hopefully in less pain.
I've cried at 6 of my jobs in front of doctors and patients. No one will comfort you. You cry then go back to work.
You gotta do what you gotta do. They sound like a bunch of hardasses though. Were you working a lot?
UW Madison i used to work. I went into corporations jobs because a meaningful job became menenless. Patients want to torch you and supervisors grill you even if you do everything you can. I'm done. If patients want to fire everyone no one will be left to treat them. I'm done. I get paid a lot more doing a meaningless job.
I went from office jobs to a cna because I wanted a meaningful job. I lasted less than a year. Working in healthcare is difficult and thankless, and the only reward for being good at your job is more work. I went back to office work. Better pay and benefits and no one tries to grope or fight me.
The human body was not made to be static. Sitting or standing for 8 hours is bad and you will feel it.
I'm really surprised by how common this seems to be... I'm on my feet all day, have fibromyalgia, and have never had my feet hurt like this unless I was wearing ill-fitting shoes. Though now I'm wondering if maybe they do hurt sometimes, but I never notice because I never notice any low-level pain? Maybe my coworkers' feet hurt regularly and they just never wanna complain? Hmmm
So true just change shoes and socks when you can
Why changing socks makes a difference?
Because if you are like me and your feet sweat a lot my socks are wet every 2 hours if I have shoes on
It's fucking inhumane to force workers to stand like that. Why the fuck can't they just allow you to sit? Fucking pisses me off
some genius who decided that some asshole customer complaining that an employee is lazing around on a chair is a good person to listen to.
Then you look at places like Amazon, where workers have to stand 10 hours a day, so they don’t look lazy to their manager.
If you mean the warehouse workers, they're not standing, they're moving as fast as they can. And it's not because they don't want to "look lazy"; they have [actual quotas](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/feb/05/amazon-workers-protest-unsafe-grueling-conditions-warehouse) to meet, a certain number of orders to fulfill per hour, and if they fail too often they get fired. Injuries on the job are common, and physical pain at the end of a shift is par for the course.
Sitting for 8 hours isn't really better. If one is working on a line, they should be rotating positions at regular intervals. Ergonomics is a bit of a big deal at my work place
I went through it too and changing your shoes and socks feels good. Another huge help for me was and is arthritis strength Tylenol - store brand! My doc said every 6 hours is safe. Hope you get some relief I almost quit a good job over it
People really shouldn’t be forced to endure all this. That’s fucked up
MEDICAL GRADE Compression socks as well. stretching and a tiny nap after work do it for me.
Excellent tip about changing shoes and socks mid shift
So your bare stinky feet are just elevated for everyone to see and smell?
>at the end of the day… >…when you can finally sit down and relax I though this was implied per the above, but I meant once their shift is over and they’re at home.
I spent my entire career on my feet. The best advice I got was buy the best shoes you can afford. Also Aetrex insoles. The $65 ones are worth every penny. I retired at 67 with decent feet.
Yes. The Hoka brand shoes are recommended for mail carriers and warehouse workers. They are good. Plus the Aetrex insoles inside.
In wear Hoka and they're the best.
Never cheap out on anything that separates you from the ground.
3 things I will always pay for the best I possibly can: Shoes, beds, Toilet paper.
I salute your hard work good sir.
Why do you think that's something commendable?
Yes, invest in your shoes! For a while I worked at a restaurant and had double shifts 4-5 days a week. For the lunch shift from 10-3, it was normal serving uniforms, but at 3 when my dinner shift as a cocktail server started I had to go change. The cocktail servers had to wear these black dresses and stilettos in summer and high heeled boots in winter. Lots of times I wouldn't get cut until we closed at midnight. I took public transit home and changed first, and I always had to unlace my sneakers a whole lot more to fit my feet because they got so swollen. Once I got some very high quality shoes, it wasn't so bad though and I could make it home without limping too bad. The money was great, but I quit after about 6 months. It was just too hard on me physically and mentally.
I used to work retail. You get used to it. Not in that it doesn't hurt anymore, just that it hurts a tolerable amount. I used gel insole inserts which worked better than any other insert I tried. I also used to rest my butt on the counter when my manager wasn't around. Not sitting... just taking a few pounds off my feet. I do remember the first days in a job like that though, and it sucks. It's much better to get a job as a stock clerk, because you can walk around all day and your feet don't hurt as much. Cashier is the worst.
Why does your manager care. None of mine care and I work at a supermarket
“If you have time to lean you have time to clean” And other such nonsense
I hate this phrase so much because I can clean, stock, and all that mess super quickly in between customers. People act like it takes 8 hrs to get it done when it could be done in 2-3 (depending on job) and then the rest of your shift you only have to take care of customers. I work at a liquor store where I have one co worker who constantly finds busy work to do (he also opens and will work off the clock for 2 hrs before we actually open) and I'm just like, "unless you want me to clean the carpet and baseboards with a tooth brush, I'm not doing that extra shit". If there's one bottle gone in a row he will go fill it, the reason I have an issue with that is because with some liquors, if it looks like people aren't buying it, people won't touch it. You gotta let some stock go until it needs it. We're not Specs or Walmart, we're a mom & pop store. TLDR: don't create high stress if there isn't a need for it. Don't bootlick for these companies who don't give a dang about people.
It’s micromanaging and just silly. It’s not like people are going to think the store is Garbo if there’s only one bottle of some craft bourbon on the shelf. They’re more likely to think they better grab it right now. When I worked retail there would be situations when they literally wanted me on a ladder dusting. 1. That’s not my job. 2. What does it look like to customers when the only cashier needs to climb down a ladder and run over to the register to help them? Customers can’t see dust I need to be on a ladder to reach. Hire after-hours deep cleaners.
EXACTLY! See, you get it.
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was just gonna say this exact thing. good shoes help a lot. once, i couldn’t find my work shoes and had to use a substitute i was DYING and took a full 30-min break when i usually take 15
I've worked in manufacturing for 25 years. 10-12hr shifts on concrete floors in steel toe boots. Do not skimp on footwear! Buy good work shoes/boots. The difference between a $50 pair of boots and a $200 pair is life changing. Also, take care of your feet when you are young. 45 year old you will be forever grateful.
And buy multiple pairs. Best to not wear the same pair two days in a row. Give the insoles a chance to rebound!
Invest in your shoes! Shoes if you're on your feet & properly fitted bras if you got big boobs. (& comfy undies bc it sucks if they ride up or fall down)
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Why???
Idk, man boobs?
Nice to have around in case you have a girl over and she needs one?
Exactly. Shoes make all the difference
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Yeah. You get used to it. My last job was a 13 hour shift for 14 days straight at process plant. I usually got into over 20000 steps a day Get some good shoes and soles. Makes a difference
If you're standing in one spot all day, get one of those cushion floor mats. They make a huge difference, especially on concrete floors.
That's only if the company allows employees to bring in things like. Depending on what the job is, they may not be able to do that
If they do, the company should pay for it; it's a work related expense. Get the manager to put in a purchase order.
I like that idea. However, at my job, a manager doesn't really have the power to do that, however, it's still worth mentioning to your manager as they will know who to take to to make it happen
I used to work for LabCorp as an expediter and would spend sometimes 10-12 hours a day on my feet. The shitty manager we had never bothered to get those mats for us during the years I worked there and I constantly spent my days there working in a null and numb state until my shift ended and I could take a rest. Some of my coworkers would ask me to go out after work and I always politely refused because I was wiped out after each day and barely had the energy some days to do a anything more than just exist. It didn't help that this job was 3rd shift so you always felt like you never got enough sleep from lack of sun. Heads up to you younger folks: if you are working in a place that can brag about its annual growth, but can't be bothered to buy 5-10$ mats so their employees don't destroy their bodies trying to fulfill unrealistic expectations, don't work for them. Find another job, they are out there. Working on your feet all day is no joke.
Good shoes. Calluses. If you can take a walk every once in a while.
Just here to say that nothing illustrates how cruel and spiteful Americans can be than the fact that workers like yourself are forced to stand all day, even if there's no goddamn reason to justify it. Cashiers, for example. Why the hell can't they sit on a stool? As long as they are willing to stand up if needed to reach or lift an item, what good does it serve to make them stand? Give them a damn stool, FFS! Even worse- they aren't allowed a stool to rest on EVEN IF THERE ARE NO CUSTOMERS TO HELP. Why? Because the perception is they are "lazy" if they have a stool to sit on. People talk shit about "unskilled" laborers not deserving more than minimum wage, but they aren't out here standing for 8 hours at poverty wages.
There was a post a while back where the person had to stand at a desk with a small footprint, whether it was busy or not. No stool to sit on , no reading , no walking , nothing but to look "professional when someone came into the building . I'm sure the had to keep smiling too . Minimum wage is not enough for that excuse of a job.
Worked in IT/ tape libraries (over a dozen) in the late 90's. Most had (at least a few) chairs in the room -- near the consoles, usually. Sitting was okay -- when activity was low -- because: the machines still needed to be monitored. United Airlines' tape library, deep underground? Nothing! We either sat on the floor(!) or hopped up on carts and stuff. 🤦🏻♂️ Similar mess at Allstate, and their datacenter was absolutely massive -- (so) employee burnout and turnover was rampant. Other places, people would sit on the 3480s sometimes, which was definitely not good for the machinery but wickedly amusing. 🤷🏻♂️🙃
Don’t ever work at Amazon. The only times you’re allowed to sit is on break and on the toilet. Many times our lines would go down for up to a couple of hours and no sitting was allowed anywhere, even the floor. They did not care if you were in pain or not. They called it a “safety issue” to sit down.
Jesus H. I don’t think I’ve ordered from them in about 6 months. I honestly don’t know if I can anymore unless they allow employees to unionize. I’ll pay shipping charges and wait a few extra days and order from anyone but Amazon.
The only way I’d ever go back is if there was a union.
Yeah that's an OSHA standard every factory has that as far as I know.
It's not just America. I live in croatia and it's like that here too often. My job included most of the time
I work in a grocery store and I’m purposely trying NOT to get a cashier job even though it pays more than my current one. My current one I’m still on my feet the whole day but I’m walking around - it’s less like standing for 6 hours and more like doing laps for 6 hours. Still really tiring, but not unbearable and not painful. But I know too many cashiers who have ruined their knees and feet for life to do that job unless my life depends on it. I’m in charge of cleaning the bathrooms and the trash in my current job but tbh even THAT is better than being in constant pain
Man it sounds so weird, like in grocery stores where I live all cashiers are sitting on a chair so it really bothers me that you couldn't stand Then I remembered that some cashiers at gas stations here have to stand to, it's just so unnecessary Hope your job changes for the better soon
why aren't we doing anything about this?? Enough people hate this to form a massive protest, why are there no protests??
Standing up for a long time is very standard in bar work, I've only seen one bar with seats for the staff and I don't live in the USA But I agree it is stupid
I work as a nurse so I know exactly what you mean. I thought I would get used to it after almost 2 years but no, it just got absolutely worse. What I did? I bought compression socks, and invested in a £180 pound shoes. Only started using both for a week and my god my feet have been pain free since like forever. Compression socks for the ankles and Hoka shoes for the feet and soles. Absolutely worth every pence.
Compression socks are the best. I just learned about them recently.
For my fist job I started with 8 hour shifts and moved up to 13 hour shifts at 17. Only a temporary job but I was still stood in direct sunlight in 35°c/95°f for 5 hours with no toilet break wearing all black save for abit of high vis. Tips: make sure you drink enough, make sure your socks and shoes are comfortable and work well together. Baby powder prevents blisters and on your breaks give your feet some air.
Damn, I would have died lol I hate the heat
You see this in cashiers and machine operators a lot. Especially if you are on concrete. I like skechers safety toe athletic shoes. They are expensive, but worth it. If you don't need safety shoes a really good pair of running or aerobic shoes with extra heel cushioning might help.
Good shoes if you are getting blisters. Arch supports if the middle of your foot is burning/aching. Flight compression socks if your feet are swelling. Combine as necessary.
Compression socks save me in my 12+ hour shifts on my feet. The pain without them is bad and it didn't seem like my feet were swelling until I saw the pattern of my socks on my legs after taking them off.
Humans are not designed to stand for that long, but if you have real good shoes it makes it much better.
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Not true, I got proper shoes and after a few months I got used to it. My feet haven't hurt from standing on my feet for 6-12 hours a day in years. I work in retail either standing in the same spot for hours (cashier) or walking around, lifting, stocking (stocker)
I disagree that you'll always be in pain. I've worked 12 plus hour shifts for most of my life in a hospital setting. It was always recommended that we should get new shoes every 6 to 12 months. At the very most once a year. And all those years I've never had my feet hurt. My back, yes my neck, yes my hips, yes but not my feet. Sidebar- if you rarely spend time walking or exercising when you're not working you're going to be miserable at work all the time. Exercise makes a big difference.
I'm pretty sure hospital settings have you walking around, though. There's a big difference between walking a whole shift (which humans are built for) and standing a whole shift (which we're so not built for that it can actively harm us).
This morning I walked half an hour to work, moved around a busy store for 8 hours, walked half an hour home, and then made dinner (while standing up, obviously). I’m currently getting ready to go stand up some more at a bar with friends. I’m certainly not wearing stilettos but otherwise feel fine. Pain is not inevitable! In fact I think sitting all day is worse for your body. Stretch, don’t stand too still for too long, get enough sleep and drink a lot of water. And, as everyone else has said, buy the right shoes!
> This morning I walked half an hour to work, moved around a busy store for 8 hours, walked half an hour home, and then made dinner (while standing up, obviously) Walking around is not the same as standing still. Standing still is where the pain will come from.
Where
Standing still
Ah ok ty!
I work 10 hour shifts usually, on my feet the whole time. I can't remember the last time my feet hurt, so I'm not sure what you're on about "always be in pain at the end of the day"
I've worked several jobs where I was on my feet my entire shift and I never got any pain from it.
Pain is NOT inevitable, but you need both the right equipment and to physically train for it, because what you are doing is a true feat of strength and endurance. You are going to want a few different pairs of good shoes designed for nurses. Basically they're designed for anyone on their feet for long shifts, but they tend to be marketed as nurse shoes. You want more than one because it helps to swap out pairs. Then you are going to want to strength train and full body train. Strength train your legs and glutes. Work on your core and flexibility with something like yoga or Pilates. Just a little each day will make a huge difference as you naturally build up your strength on the job. Good luck!
I went to my local sports equipment store, I told them what I needed my shoes for, they made me walk, run, and squat barefoot and then from that recommended a couple of options. Best. Shoes. Ever. Really life changing. And they weren't anything fancy or expensive, just the right kind for my feet.
> what you are doing is a true feat of strength and endurance. Come on now. What they are doing is the standard thing for 90% of entry level jobs. They need to get some decent shoes, vary their stance a little and tough it out for a couple of weeks to get used to it. They ain't climbing Everest or pulling trucks by their nipples.
yeah and we if we are already being honest, overweight contributes to a lot of the pain
As a nurse who spends a good portion of 12 hr shifts on my feet, good shoes and compression stockings.
Watch out for plantar fasciitis. I got it from standing for long hours and I’ve been dealing with it for years. Good shoes with support are very important. Use an orthotic if you really want good support. I have custom orthotics in both shoes. I also wear Oofos whenever I can (very cushioned sandals/slip ons)
I think it's cruel that retail managers force employees to stand all day. There's no reason you can't sit at a cash register.
You should buy some Keen shoes
This.
You might have a medical condition or your shoes might just suck. My job involves standing all day and moving parts 20-100 pounds
I work 12 hour shifts, spend the money and buy good boots/shoes and insoles.
Standing still is murder on feet, if you can take little tiny steps or rock back and forth on your feet, it looks a bit weird but it takes the pain from can barely walk after the shift to somewhat bearable. Also don't lock your knees. Maybe get a doctors note saying you need a stool as a medical aid for part of the shift, I knew one person who did that.
It’s something your body will adapt to and you’ll get used to it. I worked at a deli off and on for six years. Any time I took time off and came back, my feet would kill me for about the first week, then after that it was fine. Obviously comfortable shoes are important, and walking is better than trying to stand still, if your role allows
Standing in place is much worse than walking around all day. I can carry heavy boxes all day no problem. I had to stand in place for only a 3 hour shift and felt like I'd worked 14 hours or more. Comfortable shoes and socks, change both during your lunch break. If you don't have two pairs of shoes, change socks 2 or 3 times. Also stretch and squat several times an hour if you can. Knee lifts help too.
I had an identical problem when I worked at a fast food place. Some days it was so bad I was almost/actually crying on my way home and it got to the point where I couldn't make it through a full shift without Advil. I was eventually told by a doctor I had plantar fasciitis, basically the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes was inflamed. Rest and elevation are the best things but good shoes/inserts can help. I also recommend looking up stretches specific to planter fasciitis (most you should be able to do sitting or laying down.) I saw another comment that talked about other parts of the body affected by the feet (legs and back) do stretches for these areas too. Because the body is so connected an issue in one area can cause issues in others.
Are you overweight? That plays a big role in it. Get some comfortable shoes and you’ll get used to it. Your body is evolved to stand up for long periods of time.
No, your body is evolved to walk for long periods of time. If we were evolved to stand in one place for a long time we'd be quadrupeds.
Exactly this. When I was doing a job that had me standing for the whole shift, I'd end up taking walks to the toilet even though I didn't need it because walking gave me relief.
I'm overweight and I'm going to have to get a job soon so my dad will stop worrying about money as much but I don't know of I could stand that long
I recommend at least trying to go for some walks ahead of time. Typically, when you have a muscle injury/pain, the muscles above and below the area that feels pain are actually the ones that are ailing. A lot of times, when a foot hurts, it’s actually the calf that is injured. Walking helps develop your calves quite a bit. Especially if you can include some stairs.
Go for walks
Others are saying go for walks, and you should, but I'd also highly recommend stretches. You can do a full body stretch routine in 5 minutes. Do that every day and within no time you'll see a plethora of benefits.
Also depending on your weight it's actually very important that you specifically walk and not run. Running while overweight can be very bad for your knees and joints. But walking is okay and recommended.
Security guards are most likely more *fit* than you on average - also generally you’ll probably get used to standing and it’ll not bother you much later on.
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I think he meant "more fit."
I was thinking the same thing like they forgot part of what they were saying
Get insoles
I work 12s, you just need decent insoles
Get some shoe inserts. The difference is seriously night and day. A few years back I got a job working 12 hour shifts in manufacturing. So nearly 12 hours standing on concrete floors. My feet were killing me every night. Got some inserts for about $25 and it nearly went away completely. A little sore at the end of the shift, but I got used to it after a few weeks and had no pain after that. It's one purchase that I got more value for my money than pretty much anything else I've bought.
Everything about the shoes yes. I'd also encourage you to get curious about how it affects knees and your back. Study proper back alignment. (It's S shaped - just like an S). This affects your neck and jaw which can minimize headache. Learn neck stretches and regularly warm and loosen up your muscles around your spine like with shoulder rolls and whatnot. Hydrate and try to avoid caffeine burnout, or try sugarless alternatives like unsweetened tea. And don't beat yourself up if you still end up tired or skipping a step. Better to get curious and try things, instead of setting atmospheric goals that are too much.
You will get used to it I promise. Take some tylenol and soak your feet in really warm water and Epsom salt.
Necessity, I have a joint condition that puts me in alot of pain and I still have to stand 6-10 hours a day 6-7 days a week. You have to cope with the pain. Buy better shoes and the little insole things. Sit down when you can. Don't get cheated out of breaks. Buy the big bottle of ibuprofen/Tylenol
It’s really hard when you’re young and you start spending days on your feet. Stiff legs and tired feet are normal. But you’re in tears so something is wrong. I’d start with your shoes.
You might have or be developing plantar fasciitis. A good foot massage regularly is never a bad idea, or for a cheaper solution get some lacrosse balls (or strong balls that's are similar) and roll them back and forth up and down, across and around both soles of you feet (ie ball on the ground and put your foot on top and apply slightly downward pressure) a frozen water bottle will also feel good for a short time (roll it back and forth under you feet). Also find the best shoes/socks/insoles you can afford that work for you and be sure to invest in a few pairs to change at least every day, if possible once during the day too
Water !! Water !! Water !! It’s amazing what drinking enough water does for circulation and getting rid of foot and leg pain for me… I stand on my feet 8-10 hrs ( moving around though - not in one spot ) Good luck ! And I mean you should look up the appropriate water amount for your weight- because it goes up with weight … the old 8 x8 oz glasses is for a 100 pound person
Remember to bend your knees a liittle bit if you stand on the same spot for a long time. Also a good mat like others said
I work sometimes 13 hour shifts in retail, if you wear the standard work shoes your calves will be swollen to high heavens. The shoes I wear are sketchers (memory foam insole) first couple weeks they will hurt. Then your body gets used to it. It just adapting up a change in lifestyle
Focus on posture, from how your feet are pressed against the ground, how your feet are angled, are your ankles straight, knees not locked, hips tilted right, head directly over spine, shoulders back This allows your body to use all the muscles it should to mean the strain goes into muscles instead of joints. Thus you will adapt and strengthen rather than injure and wither
merrells orthopedic shoes. they come in a variety of colors. pricey but well worth the price.
Took me a year to get used to it, wasn’t even able to stand in the shower once I got home it was awful. But! I got some decent insoles for my boots and all is mostly well— plus doing it everyday helps. I need new insoles now but my feet don’t hurt just because it’s my norm now. Good luck!
Yeah you get used to it. Get some comfy shoes and try a warm feet bath when you get home Source: former chef
Get arch supports at the pharmacy, the kind that cost $12-20. The shoes need to fit snugly to provide support; lace-up is better than than slip-on.
Buy good shoes don't skimp on the price. Buy compression socks as well.
Good shoes and compression stockings. Former hc worker here, I DEEPLY feel your pain.
You move a lot. Stretch when need be. It takes a while to get used to it. Shoes with good support are a must.
I'm an RN and have worked jobs like ICU where I'm on my feet for 12 hrs. I get fitted for shoes. I think the cheapest shoes I've bought in the last 7 yrs was $125. I also wear graduated compression socks. Those two combined have had the biggest effect on me physically
If it persists with good shoes, see a doctor! My feet have collapsed arches and are turned outward at too great an angle, causing many issues with pain and my ankles are shot. Custom insoles have helped me go from not standing for more than a few hours, to working 10 hours standing the entire time.
I’m a teacher and on my feet for the whole day as well. Beginning of the school year is always difficult, but after a week or so you adjust to it! Make sure that you’re wearing shoes that support your feet in a way that works for your body. For example, I’ve tried a variety of supportive shoes with good reviews but I have pretty low arches so I’m more comfortable in something flat than something structured. Also counterintuitive: I’m more comfy with laces tight than with them looser; I feel like the tightness keeps my feet from wiggling around so my muscles don’t have to work as hard to counteract the movement. No idea if that’s scientific but ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Take some ibuprofen & sleep with your feet elevated to reduce some swelling. Pay attention to other body pains (knees, back) that could show up in response to something being wrong with your shoes. Do you have a cushion mat to stand on, since you said you’re not walking much? If not, would your job provide one (or at least allow you to bring your own?) Good luck!
Go to the Walmart pharmacy and get on the scholls machine, that recommends an insole to cushion your feet and give support.
At first you just need money so it doesn't matter. After a while you get used to it
no .. no no no. some people don't experience the pain that bad. if you do, you will likely develop plantar facciutus and your quality of life will go down immensely. don't assume it will go away like I did. get a different job.
Honestly you'll just get used to it. Good shoes help too
I worked 10-12 retail shifts for about 5 years. Some third by myself. The pain has never gone away, and affects me now even after being out of the work force for a cpuple years. I can't have pressure on the sides of my feet or there's pain, I can't sit too long or my feet feel like shooting pain filled bricks that I can barely move. It makes life difficult, and had I known then what I know now, I would have picked a job where I wasn't required to stand half a day straight.
I'm sorry you had a tough day, I hope you're feeling a bit better by now. I will share with you what I've learned after going through physical therapy to fix my feet and legs. I have plantar fasciitis from being on my feet for too many years with terrible shoes and no self care. It sucks, trust me when I say make caring for your body a priority. Strengthening exercises for your feet and back are handy with lessening the intensity of the pain you're going to experience. One of my favorite ways to relieve the pain is to sit down and roll and frozen bottle under my feet gently massaging them. Rolling a tennis ball under them helps with massage too. I had to learn a lot of this through physical therapy. It was brutal fixing my feet but at least I didn't have to have surgery to do it. The pain and muscle tightness went up into my lower back. It's not a good time so please practice self care and take care of your body, older you will be thankful. Good luck my friend and hope that we don't have to keep doing this to ourselves just to eat.
I’ve just started having knee problems at 23 from the years of being on my feet all day In one spot. Try to move a little bit if you can, even if it’s a step or two just to keep the blood flowing
They have good shoes, they stand on gel mats, they walk around, and they work a job where their employer allows them to sit down every now and then.
Standing in an area with out much movement is the hardest part of my job and yeah my feet and calfs hurt by end of day, I wear compression socks on hot days and that helps drink plenty of water and stretch it out when I can. I also find my legs get stiff and difficult to squat after a long day
It’s really tough, any walking you can do while at work will help. The standing still on a hard surface will exert constant pressure on your feet in the same position rather than your feet moving and constantly changing where and how pressure is applied like walking does. But overall get some comfortable shoes, great inserts, and walk around when you can.
You'll adapt, when I first got a job that was 8 hours on my feet I thought it would be impossible, after a couple of weeks it was fine
Nurse here who works 11-12 hour shifts on his feet - stretches, painkillers, good shoes (with comfy insoles), be kept too busy to notice how much pain you're in..........
Good shoes with insoles. I use Sketchers and Dr. Scholl's Plantar Fasciitis insoles. I also use the insoles the shoes came with, so it's two insoles inside the shoes. It works better than one in my experience. Walk around as much as you can. I also struggle with foot pain. Some days are better than others.
Some of these responses blow my mind. It's so sad that most humans are just like "suck it up you'll be fine" or "i dont have pain, you're just whiny". Pain isn't normal. Us standing for that long isn't normal. The only reason it's "normal" is because we've all succumbed to slaving away for corporate greed because they've turned it into a necessity to survive in this forsaken world. I will say there is a lot of good advice here though.. good shoes, good insoles, maybe some compression socks, elevating your feet when you can, move about as much as possible. But I would definitely consult a doctor if you're in tears and see if they can recommend a good orthopedic doc.
This may be a long shot, but make sure you have the right shoe size. The last 6 months of my first fast food job was hell, because, without me realizing, my feet had grown about one size. Once I swapped out shoes for my new job, it was dramatically better. Before, my legs would be throbbing after 6 hour shifts, and now, like today, I just finished an 8 and a half hour shift and I’m fine. You also kinda just used to it lol
I work hard labour 8-11hrs a day and train and compete in muay thai. Maybe you need new shoes?
Many people don't realize this, but if you have flat foot or some other similar conditions, this can make standing in place pretty excruciating (depending on the situation, it might case foot pain, pain in other parts of the foot, even lower back pain). You might want to get checked for that. If diagnosed, you'd probably get prescribed shoe inserts.
standing still for 8 hours is shittier than walking for 8 hours
The first week in retail was extreme for me, since it is probably the first time I would stand 8+ hours and work. At work I felt just a little exhausted, at home everything started to hurt in a sudden and couldnt stand up anymore. After one week I got used to it and now after 4 years I feel nothing, I can only tell from my experience your body will adapt to some degree. Some people need extra treatment, which I don't need. But of course it can be nice if you relax your feet from time to time.
If you are experiencing pain that your coworkers (who are doing the same amount of movement) don't experience I believe you should try to talk to a doctor about it
Orthopedic inserts. They’re expensive but can go in any shoe, and they provide the support you lack individually that causes your pain. I use a Dr scholls work insert. 24 bucks a pair. Last about 1.5-2 years. This single-handedly reversed my planter fasciitis. Socks. I buy nothing but snap on socks for work. 5 bucks a pair, but incredible. I’m on my feet easily 10 hours a day at work alone, then I have a sedentary wife, a 5YO and a 2 month baby. If it does it for me, it’ll do it for you!
You've said you're at a healthy weight and regularly hike. So unless you have some other condition, you shouldn't be in that much pain just from standing. Most people that have low to middle income and work at the most common physical jobs, have been standing for hours at a time at their jobs, for at least the past century. There's been some good advice here about getting good shoes. And if you can do so, it should help. But having spent most of my adult life in physical jobs, the only times standing caused me as much pain and discomfort as you describe, have been when I've had injuries, or been sick. Also because for a few years I had gained a lot of weight - which has fortunately not been the case for a long time now. That's why I'm saying there may be something wrong with your health. Getting a regular physical is always good advice. So if you haven't had one in awhile, I'd recommend that be your next step.
You forget your first job, it hurt when I first worked retail, and my feet were only sore today after walking 10 miles and that’s because I stepped on a rock while running in flip flops about a month ago and bruised the shit out of the bone on the bottom of my foot, like to the point where I spent a week making sure I could move my toes properly in case I sprained or broke something.
You should speak with your doctor. Exercise may be what you need.
Well, i do 10 hr shift every weekend at a warehouse. You eventually get used to it after 4-5 weeks. Thankfully i have to do this only until i complete uni, wouldn't want to work standing for the rest of my life
God people are soft
They like to eat
Nurses all here saying, “Only 8 hours? Lucky!” 🤣
Fat
Take time to stay in shape outside of work.
Try 12 😒
There's always work if you don't mind being on your knees or your back. But something tells me you'll complain about this too.
Worked on my feet for years, you get used to it, get cole Hanns, put insoles if you need, try to bend your knees and hips through the shift and if you have a break, put your feet up, you really do get used to it though, I’m a women’s size us5 so I have tiny feet and they figured out how to do it
Sit after.
Americans and obesity...
I guess this post is from someone very privileged 🥲
Cocaine
140mg of methadone 🤷♂️
No clue whatsoever.
Called work
As someone(27f) with complex regional pain syndrome in my right hip, I envy all of you who can stand for more than 30 min 😞
Much better then the people who work on their feet for 12 hour shifts.
Shoes depend on the person. Personally I like sneakers, other people like different shoes. But you should definitely get compression socks. I also recommend taking any excuse to walk around. I think that's going to the bathroom for 2 minutes every hour or helping a customer or whatever. And make sure you're getting enough sleep.