How can you find the best nursing shoes to wear during long shifts?
Did your last shift go smoothly? Or did it entail high patient volumes, unexpected emergencies, and stressful interactions? Either way, hopefully, your feet were comfortable! Adding foot pain to the mix makes any shift miserable. It’s the last thing any nurse wants.
There’s no getting around it — spending long hours on your feet is part of the job for many nurses. Working longer shifts only exacerbates the risk of foot pain or injury.
Some nurses prefer to work extended shifts, which might be 12-hour shifts, three days in a row. Others would rather work eight-hour shifts. Whether your shift is eight hours or 12 hours, though, you’re spending hours on your feet.
When nurses agree to work extended shifts, foot health might not be at top of mind. However, foot discomfort can derail even the most dedicated nurse. Here we help you choose the best nursing shoes to keep your feet healthy and avoid injury.
Foot disorders are common in nurses
As a nurse, you may not realize just how many steps you walk during a typical shift. Nurses working an eight-hour shift walked an average of 5,938 steps and nurses who worked a 12-hour shift walked an average of 9,003 steps, according to a recent study. The best nursing shoes will give you comfort and support every step of the way.
During longer shifts, comfortable shoes are a must. But the best nursing shoes also prevent injury. If you consider workplace injury in nursing, you might think about back strain from lifting patients or even potential incidents of physical violence. However, foot disorders also pose a threat to nurses’ health and well-being.
Constantly standing can result in various foot disorders that negatively impact nurses. For example, plantar fasciitis causes heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia. Stress fractures, bunions, and Achilles tendonitis are also common among nurses. Pain was the most common foot and ankle disorder in nurses, and numbness, burning feet, structural deformities, and calluses were also common in another study.
Foot injuries are often caused (or exacerbated) by improper footwear, lack of arch support, and insufficient cushioning. Nurses who worked longer hours were more likely to report higher levels of chronic foot pain, another study found. Long shifts can lead to foot fatigue, pain, and even long-term health issues if you’re not wearing the right footwear.
The best nursing shoes for long shifts
When it comes to shoes for extended nursing shifts, comfort and safety take precedence over style. Look for slip-resistant work shoes that offer cushioning and support. Some good brands to explore that combine safety features with style include:
When deciding on the best nursing shoes for long shifts, look for these features:
Comfort: Proper cushioning helps alleviate foot pain and prevents conditions like plantar fasciitis. Adequate cushioning absorbs shock and reduces impact on your feet, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Shoes with memory foam, gel inserts, or air cushioning provide excellent comfort.
Support: Supportive shoes can improve your posture, reducing strain on your back and joints. Proper arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing pain. Shoes with good arch support distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on your feet and legs. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or removable insoles that allow you to add orthotics if needed. Orthotic inserts can provide additional support and relieve pressure on sensitive areas.
Durability: Nursing shoes need to withstand the rigors of daily use in a healthcare setting, during lengthy shifts. Durable materials and sturdy construction mean your shoes last longer, providing reliable performance shift after shift. Thus, the best nursing shoes may be costly but can save you money in the long run.
Slip-resistant soles: As a nurse, you likely work in environments where spills and wet surfaces are common. The best nursing shoes have slip-resistant outsoles for better traction to prevent slip and fall injuries. This improved traction helps prevent accidents, ensuring nurses can move confidently and safely, even in fast-paced or emergency situations.
Secure fit: Properly fitting shoes prevent blisters. The best nursing shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes to move.
Breathability: Shoes made from mesh or other breathable fabrics keep your feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of blisters and infections.
Ease of cleaning: Nurses often encounter spills and other messes, so it’s important to choose shoes that are easy to clean and maintain. Leather and synthetic materials are typically easier to wipe clean than fabric. To maintain your nursing shoes, regularly wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
An investment that pays in comfort
Choosing the best nursing shoes for long shifts ensures comfort and injury prevention. Consider factors such as arch support, breathability, and ease of cleaning when making your decision.
The right pair of shoes allows you to focus on your work — and your patients — rather than on foot discomfort. Investing in high-quality nursing shoes will pay off in the long run, keeping you comfortable and focused during even the most demanding shift.
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