If you stand for extended periods, especially in unprotected feet on hard surfaces, the heels can get uncomfortable and fatigued. A hard floor does not provide ideal small changes of the feet and ankles, sort of “securing” them in place.
That results in poor circulation within the foot and can generate swelling that causes fatigue, pain, and soft tissue damage. Whenever you were standing, the foot muscles are working to keep you balanced and supported. Without movement, the same forces have to remain working consistently, resulting in weakness and inflammation.
There is also constant pressure on one area—often on the heels because they tend to absorb the most maximum of your weight. Walking is typically less uncomfortable then standing because it allows the foot to move and alters the force along the foot’s whole surface.
Standing, however, doesn’t give that same variation. When we stand, the feet’ intrinsic muscles are inactive, and the dynamic mechanisms that stabilize the arch…do not engage.
Hence, the foot’s arch is supported only by static mechanisms, primarily the plantar fascia and the plantar ligaments. Prolonged standing Can result in pain and soreness, but other difficulties like plantar fasciitis, which is a strain on the tendon at the bottom of the foot, cause heel pain.
Easy Ways to Prevent Heel Pain
Fortunately, you can do something to take the weight off your feet and stop heel pain.
‣ Give yourself time to adapt to the practice: Most people get a standing desk, and then they shift from sitting all day to standing all day. It is not good thought simply because you’re body isn’t used to it. Standing needs strength in different muscles, and it takes time to build them up.
‣ Go regular: Begin by standing for 30 minutes to one hour a day for about a week, and then gradually extend your time as your body adapts.
‣ The most helpful thing about standing is that you can move more easily during your work, so take advantage of it.
‣ Try to get a good quality mat to enjoy the full standing benefits.
‣ If you stretch at the end of each day, you’ll improve your strength and significantly decrease your risk of pain.