Nurses are essential to every aspect of patient care, bringing skill, compassion, and resilience to some of the toughest moments in healthcare. But the job comes with a physical burden that’s often underestimated. One of the biggest challenges is the constant standing and walking that fill most shifts. Over time, this ongoing strain can contribute to discomfort, fatigue, and even burnout.
By understanding how prolonged standing affects nurses and adopting strategies to reduce its impact, healthcare teams can better protect the long-term well-being of the people at the center of patient care.
How Extended Standing Takes a Toll
Long hours on hard floors create continuous stress on the back, legs, and feet. Many nurses deal with soreness, swelling, and stiffness by the end of a shift—issues that can escalate into chronic pain or musculoskeletal problems if left unaddressed. These physical demands also make it harder for nurses to recover between shifts, especially during periods of high workload or understaffing.
The mental effects are just as significant. Physical discomfort often heightens emotional exhaustion, increases stress, and reduces the ability to recharge. When rest is limited and pace is intense, the cumulative pressure can push nurses toward compassion fatigue and burnout.
Practical Habits That Help Reduce Strain
There are several ways nurses can support their own health and lessen the effects of long hours on their feet:
Choose footwear that supports the body: Shoes with cushioning, arch support, and stability help absorb shock and protect joints. Replacing shoes before they wear out is just as important as choosing the right pair in the first place.
Take hydration and rest breaks: Making time to drink water and sit briefly helps circulation and reduces muscle tension. Even brief pauses can keep discomfort from building throughout a shift.
Incorporate simple movement and stretching: Light stretches or mobility exercises can be done throughout the day to keep muscles engaged and prevent stiffness.
Use cushioned surfaces when available: Anti-fatigue mats or padded flooring can make a noticeable difference in high-standing areas.
Rotate tasks when possible: Switching between sitting, standing, and movement-based responsibilities gives the body time to recover and maintain stability.
Building a Supportive Workplace Culture
While nurses can take steps on their own, organizational support is essential. Healthcare facilities can promote nurse wellness by offering ergonomic resources, improving flooring conditions, and providing education on injury prevention. Leadership also plays a key role by creating reasonable schedules, ensuring adequate rest periods, and encouraging open conversations about physical strain and burnout.
When nurses feel supported by their organization, they are more likely to stay engaged, energized, and committed to their work.
Strengthening the Future of Nursing
With nursing shortages and turnover on the rise, prioritizing the well-being of nurses is critical. Reducing the physical demands of prolonged standing isn’t just about comfort—it’s about sustaining the workforce that healthcare depends on.
Combining personal wellness practices with workplace-level improvements creates an environment where nurses can thrive. Supporting their health strengthens patient care, boosts team morale, and reinforces the foundation of the entire healthcare system.
Want to learn more about the strain of standing on nurses and how to address it? Check out the accompanying resource from Dansko, a maker of mary jane shoes.
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