Millions of people around the world are now finding out that working from home is not as great as they thought it would be. People are deprived of an ideal work set up; they no longer have the ergonomic furniture, keyboards, and monitors that they have become used to. This is affecting people’s health and causing a lot of aches and pain. One of the areas affected is the feet.
Foot Problems Related to Working from Home
- Heel pain
- Big toe pain
- Sore arches
- Muscle cramps
- Swollen feet
- Swollen ankles
Causes of Work from Home Foot Problems
Resting on the Balls of the Feet
Many people rest their feet on some kind of stool. This prolonged resting on the balls of the feet can cause problems like a hammertoe, shortened Achilles tendons, arch pain, and muscle spasms.
Resting on the Outer Edges of the Feet
This is another way that people rest their feet and it can cause arch pain, pain in the little toe, ankle weakness, and discomfort.
Sitting on the Feet
Some people are very comfortable tucking their feet under them. This can cause pain to the feet, ankles, knees, legs, and lower back.
Sitting with Legs Stretched out and Ankles Crossed.
This puts stress on the lower back and also on the ankles and feet. It can cut off circulation and compress nerves in the feet leading to cramps, numbness, and tingling.
Sitting for Long Periods
This can cause swelling in the ankles and feet. It can also hamper blood circulation.
Tips to Prevent These Problems
- Sit in such a way that the hips are at a level with or slightly higher than the knees.
- Keep feet firmly planted on the floor or a footrest.
- Take breaks at intervals and walk around.
- Wear supportive footwear even when at home.