Should You Wear Shoes While Working From Home?

Wearing shoes while working from home is not a common practice for everyone, but it makes a difference in maintaining foot health. Proper footwear helps protect your feet from unnecessary aches, strains, and even stress fractures. Below, you’ll discover how neglecting to wear supportive shoes can lead to discomfort and foot conditions.

Sore Feet From Walking on Hard Floors

Unlike padded carpets, hard floors don’t offer any support or shock absorption. Walking around barefoot on hard floors means the pad of your foot absorbs this repetitive impact. Doing this for weeks or months can cause them to become inflamed, resulting in:

  • Achilles Tendinitis inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the tendon responsible for linking the calf muscles to the heel bone.
  • Plantar Fasciitis inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot.
  • Metatarsalgia – a condition in which the ball of the foot becomes painful and inflamed.

Preventing Injuries by Wearing Shoes Indoors

Walking barefoot indoors also increases the risk of injuries from accidents around the home. Everyday hazards like tripping over objects or stubbing your toes on furniture increase the likelihood of fractured toes and feet.

For people with diabetes, injuries can especially be concerning. About half of all people with diabetes have nerve damage (neuropathy). This can cause loss of feeling in the feet. Since pain tells the body when something is wrong, a cut, blister, or other foot problem could go unnoticed. People with diabetes are also prone to poor circulation, which can weaken the skin and reduce the body’s ability to heal. Wearing indoor shoes for foot protection can reduce these risks.

Wearing Shoes and Using an Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat

Some remote workers use standing desks to stay active during the day, but standing without supportive footwear can quickly lead to foot fatigue and pain. That’s why it’s also recommended to use an anti-fatigue floor mat. These specially designed floor mats distribute body weight evenly and reduce strain on muscles and joints.

Alternatively, use a footrest at a seated workstation to help relieve pressure and improve circulation.

Keeping Your Home Clean While Wearing Shoes

A common concern with wearing shoes indoors is maintaining cleanliness. In some cultures, shoes are removed to prevent tracking in dirt or allergens. However, this can be solved by having a dedicated pair of shoes for indoor use. Switching shoes when you return home only takes a few seconds, and this habit ensures there’s nothing disgusting about wearing shoes inside.

What to Look for in a Shoe

The footwear choices we make can have immediate and long-term effects on our feet. Look for a shoe with built-in arch support, cushioned insoles, and a wide toe box. If extra support is needed, consider custom orthotics.

Request an Appointment With The Foot & Ankle Center

If you are experiencing any discomfort in your feet or ankles, consult a podiatrist at The Foot & Ankle Center!

Since 1989, we have been proud to deliver patients the highest quality of care in a comfortable and convenient setting. Our friendly and attentive doctors are knowledgeable and dedicated to giving you the best care possible.

Call us at (314) 487-9300 or contact us online to request an appointment today!