Suggestions by chance?

[SengaKitty]

If this isn't the right spot mods, please feel free to move.

I just started work at a convenience store on Friday. The last time I was in a job where I was on my feet all day was almost two years ago, so this job is really putting a strain on my knees. By the middle of my shift, my knees and heels are killing me. Does anyone have any suggestions to help with this? I just got some new tennis shoes that are really comfortable, but they just don't seem to be doing the trick. Help?

[Aethian]

get removable insoles and switch them out half way?

[wasabi999]

Dansko and Merrill make comfortable and stylish shoes. You can get excellent prices on Dansko seconds at www.footprints.com. Disclaimer: I have no financial interest in any of the companies mentioned but I am a satisfied customer of same.

[EvilEmpryss]

If you can't get one of those rubber foam mats to stand on (they're pretty cheap, but you have to get the boss to let you have one at your register) then you can try using a nice fluffy towel. Fold it into a square and stick it under your counter. Every now and then pull it out and stand on it for a few minutes. Sometimes just the change in hardness under your feet can help, and something as small as a towel can be shoved out of sight if customers or the boss show up.

Also, do stretching exercises regularly to prevent your ligaments from tightening up. Sit down and touch your toes, or while standing pull your foot up behind you to touch your bum. Lunges, both forward and to the sides, are good exercises, too, as are squats. Make certain you aren't locking your knees when you stand: not only does it put more strain on your joints, you can pass out when the circulation is cut off. I've seen this happen in more than one military formation!

I definitely recommend investing in a good pair of Dr Scholls inserts or shoes. I used to wear the inserts in my combat boots 'cuz I had to stand in front of machinery all day. The new ones you have to step on a machine to have it tell you which ones to buy are supossed to be really good, but at $50 a pop I haven't bought them for myself yet.

[Mytical]

I know it may sound a bit odd, but using rubbing alcohol on your legs before you go into work can sometimes prevent stiffness and soreness. Warm up exercises can help too if you are not used to standing for long periods of time. Stretches, etc

When you get home, put some epson salts in the tub, run water, and soak before doing anything else. It you sit down first, chances increase for getting leg cramps.

1)During work, find a surface that is easily cleaned, and do some leg stretches for a few minutes. Place just the middle of your foot on the corner of the elevated surface, with one leg fully extended and the other firmly flat on the ground. Lean forward and try to touch the toe without bending the leg. Do this a few times, then switch legs.

OR

2) Place your foot firmly on a flat surface, one leg bent the other leg straight. Lean forward then back a couple of times. Switch legs and repeat.

Find a special other who will rub your feet when you get home, rubbing alcohol or message oil.

[wagegoth]

It was mentioned above, but supportive shoes are very important. Get some good Dr. Scholl's insoles, not the foam ones, but the more expensive ones with arch support.

Also, try putting lightweight wraps on your knees until they adjust to the standing.

[fireheart]

checkout chick here!

I've found three things that'll help me with being on my feet all day:

1) wiggling my toes. My sister taught me that one as she's in a theatre group and is also required to be on her feet for long periods. I've sometimes had to modify it to kicking my legs around (low kicks) so I can get the blood going.
2) moving around a LOT. Gotta go do a basket run? I'm right there. Gotta go put the stock away? I'm right there.
3) Lambswool insoles. It feels like I'm sinking my feet into a plush carpet.

[Sleepwalker]

Don't lock your knees, look into getting a shoe brand aimed at restaurant workers- they are usually advertised as no slip but they give better support as well and are quite durable. They cost 20-30 bucks. Then, find the support you need.

Buy it cheap at first, because until you know which parts of the foot you need to support dropping 30-60 on a pair of fancy supports is gonna murder your pocketbook. You can get a cheap arch support for four bucks at wally world, even the dollar store has them sometimes.

I made the mistake of going with a gel insert, and while it feels nice for the first 20 minutes, the cheap, unpadded arch support I bought next made me feel my age again instead of like an arthritic grandmother. No more joint pain, and the soreness in my feet disappears about an hour after my shift.