Health is wealth, it applies to everyone irrespective of anything. Then why isn’t it, HEALTH FIRST and not SAFETY FIRST?
Safety is the state of being “safe”, the condition of being protected from harm or other danger.
For us seafarers, it’s our ship, a floating workstation made of metal. Here we prioritize our safety before health which is nothing wrong in the context of the conditions and environment we work in. There is no doubt that safety shoes are an integral part of our work gear, we may remove other items as per the PPE matrix but seldom the SHOES. Those shoes stay with us for almost the propelling days spent which is why it is of utmost importance that we feel for our feet inside.
Table of Contents
Size of the Safety Shoe matters
You have received your safety gear before joining, worrying about the excess weight you won’t bother even trying them once, and even if you try them you won’t test them thoroughly. The pain associated with ill-fitting safety shoes is not limited to the foot either; it can sometimes spread to other parts of the body such as the back or hips due to poor posture caused by trying to walk in ill-fitting footwear.
If they are too tight
cause blisters, corns, calluses, and hammer toes. In some cases, these conditions require surgeries.
If they are too big
lets your foot slides forward, causing the toes to jam into the toe box of the shoe. The movement of the foot inside a shoe that is too big can also create blisters on the heel and balls of the feet
If they are too wide
cause a bunion to form on your big toe since it will be pushed out of alignment when you walk.
If they are too narrow
cause swelling in your toes and corns or calluses between them because of the friction caused by rubbing together inside the shoe.
Also Read
5 Healthy Habits seafarers need to follow
Steps to healthy feet
This is evident that our foot takes all the load, is always inside the shoes, and is among the least maintained body parts. Always keep track of these footprints:
Know your foot first
We should know our foot and the condition where it gets strained and where it relaxes any asymmetric or deformity. Consult your doctor on what will be the best add-on for your type of foot.
image credit: phealth.ca
Get the right size
If your feet hurt when wearing safety shoes, the first thing you should do is check the fit. You can make sure in an instant by placing your foot on an overturned shoe or by placing it on its sole. If in your standing state it sole covers the foot length and width go for it.
image credit: barefoot strength (youtube)
Using a pair of insoles
Most people don’t realize how important insoles are for keeping their feet healthy and comfortable at work. The best type of insoles for use in safety boots will provide extra cushioning for the balls and heels of your feet, which helps absorb impact and also help keep your arches supported.
image credit: assets.entail.ai; orthobullets.com
Wear compression socks
Due to gravity the blood is pulled downwards and gets accumulated. The compression socks help improve blood circulation in your legs, ankles, and feet.
image credit: Pinterest
Soak your feet or Hydrotherapy
You can soak your feet in water with Epsom salt or any essential oil you carry onboard. Hydrotherapy involves placing your feet in hot water which dilates your blood vessels, it helps to release toxins and when placed in cold water it reduced inflammation. This can be easily arranged without any fuss in the cabin.
image credit: heartofwellness.org
Last but not least, Moisturize
Treat your feet with moisturizers, trim those toenails keep your weight in check, and never ignore any pain or discomfort you are facing. When on vacation having a foot spa and pedicure won’t do any harm.
From the moment we sign on the vessel our feet land on the metal losing the tender feedback of the crust. So, along with safety, we should not forget health and especially when it comes to feet, give them as much attention and care as your other body parts.
Wish you happy and healthy feet.
