Belfast is a city of people on their feet — nurses at the Royal Victoria and City Hospital, teachers across dozens of schools, chefs in the Cathedral Quarter, retail staff on Royal Avenue, hairdressers in every suburb. If you spend 8-12 hours standing, your feet pay the price.
Why Standing All Day Hurts Your Feet
When you stand for prolonged periods, several things happen:
- Increased pressure: Your feet bear your entire body weight hour after hour
- Reduced circulation: Blood pools in the lower limbs, causing swelling and fatigue
- Muscle fatigue: The small muscles in your feet and calves become exhausted
- Hard surfaces: Hospital floors, shop floors, and kitchens are unforgiving
Common Conditions We See in Belfast Workers
Plantar Fasciitis
The classic "first step in the morning" pain. Standing all day overloads the plantar fascia, especially on hard surfaces with inadequate footwear.
Metatarsalgia (Ball of Foot Pain)
Pain and burning under the ball of your foot, common when standing in thin-soled shoes. The metatarsal heads take enormous pressure when you're on your feet all day.
Morton's Neuroma
Nerve irritation between the toes causing pain, numbness, or a "pebble in the shoe" sensation. Tight or narrow work shoes are a major contributing factor.
Bunions and Toe Deformities
Prolonged standing in narrow shoes can worsen bunion progression and contribute to hammer toes.
Practical Solutions That Work
Footwear
This is the single biggest factor within your control. Look for:
- Cushioned midsole for shock absorption
- Supportive heel counter
- Wide enough toe box
- Slip-resistant sole (especially for healthcare and hospitality workers)
- Replace work shoes every 6-12 months — the cushioning compresses over time
Custom Orthotics
For workers with specific biomechanical issues, custom orthotics can transform comfort levels. We design orthotics specifically for your work footwear and the demands of your job.
Compression Socks
Medical-grade compression socks improve circulation and reduce end-of-day swelling and fatigue. Many of our healthcare worker patients swear by them.
Belfast Worker? We Can Help
If foot pain is affecting your ability to work, don't suffer through it. We see Belfast workers every day and understand the specific demands of your profession. Book your assessment and get back to comfortable working. We offer early morning and evening appointments for shift workers.
