Certain jobs require you stand for extended periods of time while working. Many times these standing jobs are not optional and the employee has no choice but to stand for hours while working.
Standing In One Place For Hours At Work
For the employees that are forced to stand in one place while at work the solution to discomfort can be an anti-fatigue mat.
An anti-fatigue mat will allow workers to stand more comfortably for hours at a time. An anti-fatigue mat allows employee to sway slightly and provides a more comfortable surface reducing pain and stiffness in joints.
Anti fatigue mats can help you stand for longer periods of time by providing a more comfortable space for you to stand on. The more comfortable squishy layer in these mats helps relieve discomfort and prevent fatigue during hours of standing.
If you stand for long hours in your kitchen or office or other areas, you might want to invest in a good anti fatigue mat. These mats like the highly rated Genuine Joe Anti-Fatigue Mat range in price from $20 to $100 and all offer a great experience for you standing for long periods.
Standing While Moving For Hours At Work
However, it’s not as easy as using an anti-fatigue mat for many employees. For the employees who are constantly moving around it is impractical to supply anti-fatigue mats everywhere to carpet an entire floor.
Possible solutions to helping employees in this line of work: ErgoMates.
ErgoMates are a new footwear solution that are worn over an employees shoes. It offers many of the same benefits as an anti-fatigue mat but in a portable form.
While this concept is still new there have been studies done about the effectiveness of ErgoMates. For example, a study at Laurentian University on the effectiveness of this product concluded the following:
- ErgoMates wearers perceived a decrease in foot fatigue
- ErgoMates wearers perceived a decrease in lower body discomfort
- ErgoMates wearers perceived an increase in back comfort
- Energy level rated increased in ErgoMates wearers by midday
- Perceived pain in feet, knees, hips, low back, and overall decreased in ErgoMates wearers
This ergonomic product offers exciting possibilities for workers who spend the majority of their day on their feet moving around. It’s also easy to buy from a trusted website like Amazon requiring no extra work or appointments.
Other options for these moving employees include wearing comfortable shoes or orthotics that are designed to keep feet comfortable when walking or standing. Wearing the proper footwear with necessary support can go a long way in reducing discomfort and preventing pain.
Standing For Hours
Neither sitting for hours or standing for hours is good for the body.
Humans are made to go from sitting and standing throughout the day and too much of either can cause problems in the body. It is important to try and adapt your work situation to better help your body make it through the work day. If you are standing for long periods at work then try to take a seated break to give your body the chance to rest.