For individuals in the workforce, increased time spent on their feet can be quite fatiguing.  Often employment positions in sales, service and factory work requires individuals to stand and/or walk for eight to twelve hours a day, three to six consecutive days a week.  Eventually the demands placed on the body leave the worker with sore and achy feet and legs, especially by the end of the day.  Unfortunately for those suffering from plantar fasciitis, they may also experience pain first thing in the morning. Rest is often part of the solution, but not always practical.
As the day progresses these workers require extra support under their feet to assist the fatiguing muscles of the foot and lower leg. A full-length orthotic under the foot can be quite comforting.
Materials used to make the orthotic depend on the worker’s job requirements and footwear needs.  In cases where dress shoes are required, a slim half-length, rigid orthotic provides great support and wearability with little room taken up in footwear.  For those fortunate to wear running or walking shoes on the job, a full-length semi-rigid orthotic is often recommended.  I have found that those who wear safety boots also fare very well with full-length, semi-rigid orthotics.
For Pedorthic Pointers on how to avoid common workplace foot problems check out: https://pedorthic.ca/workplace-footwear
Foot orthotics are valuable tools in providing more comfort and correcting weight-bearing foot problems. I have found them to be clinically effective in treating children, highly active individuals and those who are on their feet regularly. Once a diagnosis is provided by a medical doctor, it is important that the person is assessed by a Canadian Certified Pedorthist.  This foot specialist can then offer an appropriate treatment plan and provide custom made orthotics that best suit the patient.
Submitted by: Vanessa Raffa De Rita, C. Ped. (C) London, ON