What should I do if my feet hurt from standing while working?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
In general, foot pain when standing during work may be caused by inappropriate footwear, prolonged standing, plantar fasciitis, hallux valgus, Achilles tendinitis, or other reasons. Patients can choose appropriate management methods such as conservative treatment, medication, or surgery based on their specific condition. It is important to pay attention to foot health in daily life; selecting suitable work shoes is fundamental, and prolonged continuous standing should be avoided with rest breaks appropriately scheduled.
Generally, foot pain when standing during work may be caused by factors such as ill-fitting shoes, prolonged standing, plantar fasciitis, hallux valgus, Achilles tendinitis, etc. Depending on the specific situation, patients can improve symptoms through general management, medication, or surgical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Ill-fitting shoes: Shoes that are the wrong size or have overly thin soles can lead to uneven pressure on the feet, causing localized tissue compression and pain. Switch to well-fitted, non-slip work shoes with arch support, and use soft insoles for added comfort.
2. Prolonged standing: Remaining upright for extended periods impedes venous return in the feet and causes sustained muscle tension, leading to soreness. Take breaks during work to rise onto your toes or walk around briefly to promote blood circulation. When resting, elevate your feet and soak them in warm water to relieve fatigue.
3. Plantar fasciitis: Repeated strain damages the plantar fascia, resulting in aseptic inflammation and sharp heel pain upon standing. Under medical guidance, topical or oral medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel, celecoxib capsules, or eperisone hydrochloride tablets may be used, along with foot massage to relax the fascia.
4. Hallux valgus: Genetic predisposition or wearing tight shoes can cause deformity of the big toe, leading to abnormal pressure and pain while standing, often accompanied by local redness and swelling. Use hallux valgus correctors as directed by a physician, and take medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, naproxen tablets, or acetaminophen tablets. Severe cases may require surgical correction.
5. Achilles tendinitis: Overstretching leads to overuse injury and inflammation of the Achilles tendon, causing pain at the back of the heel when standing, which worsens with activity. Medications such as flurbiprofen gel patches, etoricoxib tablets, or Huoxue Zhitong capsules may be used under medical supervision. If conservative treatments fail, surgical repair of the Achilles tendon may be necessary.
Maintaining foot health in daily life is essential. Wearing appropriate work shoes is fundamental; avoid prolonged continuous standing and schedule regular rest breaks. Consistently perform foot stretching exercises to strengthen muscles. Seek prompt medical attention if pain progressively worsens or if deformities develop.
