Why your feet swell during your shift and what you can do about it

Long days in healthcare can take a toll on your feet. A common problem is swollen feet, which can be uncomfortable and even affect your performance. In this blog post, we dive into the causes of this problem and give you practical tips to reduce swelling, so you can keep focusing on caring for others.

Causes of swollen feet during your shift

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur due to a buildup of fluid in the tissues. Various factors can contribute to this, especially during long shifts in healthcare:

• Prolonged standing or sitting: Staying in the same position for a long time can cause fluid to build up in the legs and feet. Gravity plays a major role here.
• Poor circulation: Reduced muscle activity in the legs can hinder circulation, meaning fluid isn't drained as effectively.
• High salt intake: A diet high in salt can lead to fluid retention, which can worsen swelling.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women often experience swollen feet due to increased pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis.
• Medical conditions: In some cases, swollen feet can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as heart failure, kidney problems, or liver disease.

What can you do about it?

Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce and prevent swelling in your feet:

1. Movement: Try to move regularly during your shift. Take a walk, do some stretches, or rise up on your toes to stimulate circulation.
2. Elevation: Elevate your feet during breaks. This helps move fluid back toward the rest of the body.
3. Compression stockings: Wearing compression stockings can improve circulation and reduce swelling.
4. Hydration: Drink enough water to help your body flush out excess fluid.
5. Limit salt intake: Avoid processed foods and fast food, which often contain a lot of salt.
6. Good shoes: Wear supportive care sneakers that don't restrict circulation. GoClove care sneakers offer stability and comfort, making your feet less prone to swelling. The non-slip sole provides good grip, while the Clarino™ material is fluid-repellent and easy to clean.

The Forte models offer maximum cushioning and stability, which is essential if you suffer from foot pain or overpronation. The Classic models offer a good standard for comfort. By choosing care sneakers with the right support and cushioning, you can reduce the pressure on your feet and promote circulation.

If you're concerned about swelling in your feet, always consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. The Dutch Heart Foundation advises seeing your GP for persistently swollen ankles.

A study published in Ergonomics showed that even light leg activity while sitting can significantly reduce fluid buildup in the feet. You can find the full study here: Evaluation of foot swelling and lower-limb temperatures in relation to leg activity during long-term seated office work: Ergonomics.

Conclusion

Swollen feet during your shift are a common problem, but with the right measures you can reduce the discomfort. Invest in good care sneakers, move regularly, watch your salt intake, and consult a doctor if needed. This way you take good care of yourself, so you can take the best care of others. Check out the collection from GoClove and find the perfect care sneakers for your long days.