Choosing the right footwear for the job is crucial to maintaining foot health and avoiding discomfort or injury. Here are ten essential tips you should follow to find the perfect footwear for your work needs.
1. Choosing the right size
Make sure the shoe has enough room in the front to prevent toe compression. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, corns and toe deformities such as bunions. It is advisable to measure your feet at the end of the day, when they are most swollen, to ensure a proper fit.
2. Opt for thick rubber soles.
A thick, slip-resistant sole provides greater walking comfort and reduces the risk of slipping. Rubber soles are especially useful in work environments where wet or slippery surfaces may be encountered. In addition, they offer better shock absorption, protecting the joints and spine.
3. Search for a rigid trampoline
The shank is an internal part of the shoe that helps the shoe to flex properly, providing a leverage effect that makes it easier for the foot to lift off when walking. A rigid shank provides additional support to the arch of the foot, reducing fatigue and preventing the development of problems such as plantar fasciitis.
4. Consider the heel recess
Choose shoes that protect the Achilles tendon and reduce rubbing in that area to avoid injury. The heel cutout should be high enough to provide support but not so stiff as to cause friction and blisters. A well-designed heel also helps keep the foot in place inside the shoe, providing greater stability.
5. Ensure a good buttress
A firm counter at the back of the shoe helps keep the heel in place and provides stability. This component is crucial to prevent excessive movement of the foot inside the shoe, which can lead to sprains and other problems. A good buttress also contributes to better alignment of the foot and ankle.
6. Check toe cap stiffness
A rigid toe breaker favors toe-off with every step, providing greater comfort. The toe cap should be wide enough to allow natural, unrestricted toe movement. This is especially important in jobs that require standing or walking for long periods of time.
7. Safety toe cap for specific jobs
For jobs that require additional protection, such as in construction, opt for shoes with safety toecaps. These shoes are designed to protect the toes against falling heavy objects and other occupational hazards. Make sure that the safety toe cap complies with the safety standards applicable to your industry.
8. Control the heel height
If you need to wear heels, make sure they are no higher than 4 cm to avoid overloading the front part of the foot. Low, wide heels are more stable and provide better support than high, thin heels. In addition, excessively high heels can alter posture and cause pain in the back and knees.
9. Choose breathable materials
Footwear should allow good breathability to keep feet dry and reduce the proliferation of fungi. Materials such as leather and breathable mesh are ideal for this purpose. Shoes that do not allow adequate ventilation can cause moisture buildup, leading to problems such as odor and fungal infections.
10. Prefer natural materials
Natural materials, such as leather, offer greater comfort and better breathability compared to synthetic materials. Leather is supple, durable and adapts better to the shape of the foot over time. In addition, natural materials are less likely to cause skin irritations and allergies.
Conclusion
Selecting the right footwear for the job not only improves your daily comfort, but also prevents long-term health problems. At Clínica San Román, we help you find the perfect footwear according to your needs. If you have questions or need advice, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team of experts is here to offer you the best care and personalized advice.
