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Haix Foot Care for Forestry Workers


Steve Bullman
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[xfloat=right]http://www.arbtalk.co.uk/images/haixgroup.jpg[/xfloat]Foot care for forestry workers

 

 

Arborists and foresters lead incredibly active lives that require them to be outside for long periods of time. During Autumn and Winter, working conditions can be particularly tough with the weather constantly changing. Over time, this can take its toll on worker’s feet. HAIX® footwear experts offer advice on how to improve foot health, with some top tips to consider when selecting new boots and shoes.

 

In the past 5 years, sales of men’s footwear have risen by nearly 10%, and British men are now spending £1.46billion a year on shoes. Perhaps unsurprisingly, British women spend more on their footwear - £2.39 billion per year. Footwear is clearly something we are all prepared to invest in and enjoy buying.

 

With 59 bones and joints, the shape, ligaments and muscles of the foot are designed to withstand the movement of everyday life but this protection is threatened by the wrong choice of footwear. How does this impact long term health, and can it be avoided?

 

Wearing footwear that does not provide adequate protection can lead to musculoskeletal problems including back pain that can develop into long term health problems. Cold and damp feet could result in swelling, soreness, blisters and in some extreme cases infections.

 

On average, musculoskeletal disorders account for around 60% of the self-reported work-related illness cases in the sector covering forestry, as well as agriculture, farming and in the occupational group ‘Skilled agricultural and related trade’. Furthermore slips, trips and falls accounted for 20% of non-fatal injuries within the same sector.

 

Plantar fasciitis, commonly known as Policeman’s foot, is just one of the more serious conditions that may develop from wearing unsupportive footwear and is often caused by standing for long periods. Common symptoms include a stabbing pain that starts with the first few morning steps and may continue throughout the day, sometimes after rising from a seated position. Worst case instances of this can lead to tendons on the bottom of the feet tearing which is incredibly painful. Plantar fasciitis can be prevented with heel cups to support the feet and reduce the acute symptoms when walking.

 

Top Tips for footwear selection

 

Whether selecting footwear for work or leisure, your footwear fortunes can change for the better by following these simple steps…

 

Sole Searching

 

The primary purpose of the sole is to protect the foot. The foot needs a firm base from which to propel the body in a dynamic forward movement. When the sole of the shoe is too soft, the foot will not have the support it needs for a strong imprint. Check this out for yourself when selecting your next pair.

 

Invest

 

Invariably, if you want the best quality footwear that offers the appropriate support and protection, you need to spend more. Whilst this may feel like a big expense short term, in the long term it will help to improve any foot problems you may have. Better quality also usually means better durability and you should find that you will not need to replace your footwear as regularly.

 

Know your surroundings

 

Buy footwear that can withstand the ever changing British climate or the local conditions if you are based elsewhere. The ideal foot temperature should be between 28-32 degrees even during high periods of physical activity. Waterproof and breathability qualities will undoubtedly improve comfort levels.

 

Shop Savvy

 

It is better to shop for footwear in the afternoon because the foot changes during the day and the volume can increase slightly. If there are laces, make sure they are fastened correctly so that you get a realistic fitting.

 

Socks Matter

 

Wear socks that fit! Socks that are too large can wrinkle inside the boot or shoe and cause blisters. Equally, socks that are too tight will wear quickly and may reduce the blood flow in your foot. Make sure to change socks at least once a day to maintain hygiene and improve general foot care.

 

 

The best footwear for the job

 

As the leading functional footwear specialist, HAIX® has launched the Protector Ultra boot in 2016. The Protector Ultra is a practical protective boot that looks great; HAIX® footwear designer Andreas Himmelreich highlights that it is “both sturdy and strong, yet light in weight.”

 

In addition to the its waterproof and breathable features, the Protector Ultra’s VIBRAM® sole is made from a special HAIX rubber mix compound, preventing slipping at low temperatures while the GORE-TEX® lining ensures feet are protected in all weathers. The two-zone lacing system also offers improved foot and ankle support.

 

Start putting your best foot forward now, taking foot care health seriously and witness the positive impact this will have on your daily life.

 

Visit the HAIX® footwear selection https://www.haix.co.uk./

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Arbtalk.co.uk is a hub for the arboriculture industry in the UK.  
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