Happy Feet: Essential Foot Care Tips for Nurses

• Foot care is essential for nurses working long shifts. 
• Common foot problems include blisters, bunions, and hammer toe. 
• Choosing the right footwear and resting are key for healthy, happy feet. 

Her feet felt like embers, every step intensifying the inferno below. The only relief during her 12-hour shift was a chair that granted her rest. A five-minute break was barely enough time to dull the pain. She had no choice but to press on.

This was my co-worker’s reality as she powered through countless nursing shifts, battling plantar fasciitis.

If you’ve been in a similar situation, you understand the importance of foot hygiene. Your feet are your foundation, enabling you to fulfill your job duties. Maintaining their well-being is essential when you work in healthcare.

Most nursing shifts are long and require long periods of standing. Preserving the integrity of your feet to prevent problems is essential. Your feet keep you going hour after hour, day after day, so take good care of them, and they will take care of you.  

Common Foot Care Problems for Nurses

Extended periods of walking, standing, and maneuvering are unavoidable as a nurse. Look out for these common foot problems: 

• Blisters: pocket of fluid under the skin often caused by friction. 
• Bunions: a bony knob at the base of the big toe. 
• Plantar fasciitis: tears and strain on the plantar fascia. 
• Hammer toe: toes that curl up when shoes are too tight. 
• Crossover toe: toes that cross each other caused from crowding. 
• Ingrown toenail: inflammation and pain on the toenail caused from excess pressure.

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, and discomfort, you might want to consider seeing a podiatrist. The inability to engage in your daily work should also be a sign that you may need help. If you’ve been injured or notice a deformity, seek help so you can get proper foot care for your ailment. 

Choosing the Right Footwear

Finding the right footwear is essential for maintaining proper foot health. Find shoes that are comfortable and supportive. Podiatrists often recommend running shoes for nurses because of the extra cushioning, lightweight design, and snug fit. Arch support is also important for preventing plantar fasciitis.

Like so many nurses, I was drawn to clogs because they were comfortable and easy to clean when they came in contact with bodily fluids. I have since learned these are not recommended by podiatrists because they don’t breathe and lack arch support. Choose what works best for you.

You might also consider adding insoles or orthotics. Insoles are sold over the counter and made of foam or gel to provide extra support. Orthotics are custom-made by podiatrists or orthopedic specialists to fit and address the specific issues with your feet.

Many nurses, including myself, notice a big difference from wearing compression stockings. Extended periods of standing cause the blood to pool in the legs and may increase the probability of getting varicose veins. Compression stockings promote blood flow and decrease leg fatigue brought on by a long shift. They also come in fun colors and patterns that spark great conversations with patients. 

Rest and Recovery Key to Foot Care

After your shift, your feet may feel fatigued and swollen. It’s time to give them a break. Elevate your feet above your heart for 10-15 minutes when you get home. You may also enjoy soaking them in Epsom salt or getting a gentle massage. Moisturizer can help relieve dry, cracked feet.

You may already stretch some muscles in your body, but did you know you can also stretch your feet? Stretching is a great way to alleviate pressure. Focus on exercises that target the balls of the feet or calves to alleviate muscle tension. Standing on a tennis ball is a great way to stretch and massage the muscles on the bottom of your feet. 

The Bottom Line

Finding comfortable and supportive footwear ensures your comfort during prolonged periods of standing and walking. By the end of a long shift, your feet are exhausted. Rest when you can and stretch the soles of your feet on your off days. If you experience pain and discomfort, see a podiatrist so you can get customized help to address the needs of your feet. 

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