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How to Relieve Foot and Leg Pain From Standing All Day

Pain in the leg and foot is common among people who have to stand all day. Find out why this happens, how it can be prevented, and how to avoid complications

a man in a white shirt and blue and pink suspenders
By Babafemi Adebajo
a woman wearing glasses standing in front of a white wall
Edited by Shir Lapidot

Published October 31, 2021.

Many people who have to stand for an extended period daily experience aching feet at night. When not addressed, the complications of prolonged standing can be overwhelming. Here's why your feet hurt, and what you can do to prevent the pain.

Why Do Feet and Legs Hurt After Standing All Day?

Perhaps you've noticed your feet and legs always hurt after standing all day. That's possible even if you wear quality shoes because the muscles of your legs are activated for a long time to keep you straight and upright, becoming fatigued in the process. Also, reduced muscle pump action causes the leg to swell, adding to the pain.

How long this will take will depend on how much endurance your leg muscles have built, how long you have to stand, and how often you have to do it.

How to Reduce the Effects of Prolonged Standing

Here are some tips for standing for long periods to reduce the associated effects;

  1. Choose comfortable footwear Ensure that your footwear supports your feet appropriately if you have to stand for long.
  2. Change positions frequently Take a few steps, stretch, walk around, sit during breaks. Changing your position moves your weight around, allowing your anti-gravity muscles time to recover.
  3. Carry compression stockings These apply pressure to the lower legs, which can aid venous return and reduce swelling.

How to Prevent Pain from Standing All Day

If you're want to avoid aching feet and ankles at night, here is how you prepare for standing all day:

  1. Stretch your anti-gravity muscles
  2. Ditch the heels and pointy soles and aim for comfort.
  3. If the floor is hard, request that it be cushioned or padded to reduce the impact on your feet.

Well, there you have it. Everything that'll help you stand for longer with lesser pain in your legs and feet.