Return to top
return to homepage

The Importance of Ergonomic Shoes

The importance of Ergonomic shoes - Why is foot comfort important? Read on.

There is an old saying that goes, "when your feet hurt, you hurt all over."

Actually, I'm reminded of that daily. When I was younger, I was lured by fancy shoes. The higher heels the better. I didn't care about quality, as long as the price was right and it looked great, they had my money.

Now, it's quality, comfort and style for me. I'm a very demanding customer.

But, back to the business of ergonomics.

Work-Related Foot Injuries

The first category are foot injuies from, get this: punctures, crushing, sprains and lacerations.

The second category are injuries including those resulting from slips, trips and falls.

The above two categories account for about twenty five percent of all foot problems.

We haven't counted, calluses, ingrown toenails that result from non-ergonomic shoes, wrong size fit and extremely tired feet.

Though they may not be officially called occupational injuies, they harm your health.

How Do You Know If Shoes Are Not Ergonomic?

Shoes that are not ergonomic for you, especially if your work requires you to stand for long hours:

  • high heels
  • pointed shoes
  • lack of arch support
  • wrong sized shoe - too loose or tight.
  • feet unable to breathe and as a result become overly sweaty which can cause fungal infections.

    Ergonomic Shoes

    Ergonomic Shoes are sophisticated these days.

    You can find specific shoes if you either stand alot, or walk alot.

    If you stand alot, you should find shoes with adequate arch support, otherwise you'll cause your foot to be misaligned - and become flat footed. This can also lead to rheumatism and arthritis.

    If you walk alot, and especially on very hard ground, you are putting too much pressure on your bones of your foot. You'll need more cushioned support.

    Obviously, there are shoes for specific work environments, especially if it is industrial. You'll have to protect your feet from burns, electric shocks, nails on the floor etc etc. Click here for more information about Ergonomic Safety Shoes.

    Tips on Buying Ergonomic Shoes

    First, identify the potential hazards of your workplace. Consider factors such as the ground, potential sharp objects, potential to slip etc.

    Then identify your needs. Do you stand for long periods at a time? Do you walk around frequently?

    Get your foot sized professionally. Also pay attention to the amount of arch you have in your foot. You can get addition foot support with a few foot inserts support accessories, like gel cushions etc etc.

    Click to see some foot foot support inserts options.

    Ergonomic Shoes Guidelines

    How to know if your shoes are ergonomic for you?

    Adapted from Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety.

    Good footwear should have the following qualities:

    1. The inner side of the shoe must be straight from the heel to the end of the big toe.
    2. The shoe must grip the heel firmly.
    3. The forepart must allow freedom of movement for the toes.
    4. The shoe must have a fastening across the instep to prevent the foot from slipping when walking.
    5. The shoe must have a low, wide-based heel; flat shoes are recommended.

    People buying footwear for work should take the following advice:

    1. Do not expect that footwear which is too tight will stretch with wear.
    2. Have both feet measured when buying shoes. Feet normally differ in size.
    3. Buy shoes to fit the bigger foot.
    4. Buy shoes late in the afternoon when feet are likely to be swollen to their maximum size.
    5. Ask a doctor's advice if properly fitting shoes are not available.
    6. Consider using shock-absorbing insoles where the job requires walking or standing on hard floors.

    When selecting footwear, one should remember that tight socks or stockings can cramp the toes as much as poorly-fitted shoes. Wrinkled socks, or socks that are too large or too small, can cause blisters. White woollen or cotton socks may be recommended since coloured socks cause skin allergies in some people.

    Thank you for reading 'Ergonomic Shoes'!

    Go back to Home Ergonomics.

    Return from Ergonomic Shoes to Ergonomics Info Home



  • Ergo Life Mailing List

    Subscribe to
    Special Updates
    Email

    Name

    Then


    I keep this private


    Latest Entries


    Define Ergonomics - What is Ergonomics?

    Define Ergonomics, what is ergonomics, ergonomics definition, definition of ergronomics, ergonomic

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "Define Ergonomics - What is Ergonomics?"


    Racing Game Chair - Playseat Evolution Gaming Seat

    Introducing the popular racing game chair: Playseat Evolution Gaming Seat. This gaming chair has hundreds of positive user reviews. For the ultimate realistic racing experience!

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "Racing Game Chair - Playseat Evolution Gaming Seat"


    Office Chair Reviews - Ergonomic Chair Reviews

    Office Chair Reviews - A review of chairs sorted by function, design, type and brand.

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "Office Chair Reviews - Ergonomic Chair Reviews"


    Human Posture for Sitting, Standing, Lifting

    What is the correct human posture for sitting, standing and lifting? Read more about basic workplace ergonomics to prevent future back problems.

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "Human Posture for Sitting, Standing, Lifting"


    Correct Posture, Proper Sitting Posture and Fixing bad posture

    Correct Posture. What is it? This article addresses posture improvement, fixing bad posture, proper sitting posture and posture at a computer.

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "Correct Posture, Proper Sitting Posture and Fixing bad posture"


    10 Steps to a Healthy Back

    Do you have a healthy back? Do you want to avoid future back and posture problems? Here are some basic 10 Steps to a Healthy Back

    Permalink -- click for full blog post "10 Steps to a Healthy Back"



    Ergonomics-Info.com

    For a healthier worklife and elegant posture.

    Subscribe To This Site
    XML RSS
    Add to Google
    Add to My Yahoo!
    Add to My MSN
    Subscribe with Bloglines



    Enjoy This Site?
    Then why not use the button below, to add us to your favorite bookmarking service?

    | Homepage | About |Contact me |Site Search |

    footer for Ergonomics-info.com


    Return to top

    Ergonomics-info.com Copyright© 2010