When does it stop hurting?
clicketykeys
Posts: 6,578 Member
I'm a teacher, so I have "lightly active" as my default setting. I also have a summer job that involves a significant amount of walking. Still, there's a part of me that feels like the increase isn't all THAT much - I made sure to get 10k steps in daily during the school year. On the days I work, I get in an average of 18k. I let my step count go lower on my off days (usually 8-9k) but I've started a strength program at a nearby gym.
And my legs and feet ache all the time. It's discomfort, not pain - I can tell that I'm not injured. But it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths. And spinach is my go-to veggie, so I'm pretty sure I'm getting all the potassium I need and then some.
But I'm getting frustrated with it. Does it actually GET any better? Is there something I should be doing that I'm not? Or do people who are more regularly active just accept this and I need to just suck it up?
And my legs and feet ache all the time. It's discomfort, not pain - I can tell that I'm not injured. But it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths. And spinach is my go-to veggie, so I'm pretty sure I'm getting all the potassium I need and then some.
But I'm getting frustrated with it. Does it actually GET any better? Is there something I should be doing that I'm not? Or do people who are more regularly active just accept this and I need to just suck it up?
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Replies
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Are you standing & walking on concrete mostly? I have a house with a concrete slab floor and my feet hurt a lot if I wear unsupportive shoes. Are you wearing shoes with good support?4
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When I had a job that had me walking/on my feet and my shoes were more than four or five months old, my feet and legs would hurt.
Try new shoes every four months.2 -
Bad shoes, weak core, weak legs and bad posture are usual culprits. While walking is great, it doesn't do a lot to improve muscle strength in the legs especially if you're losing weight. You're only dealing with resistance that's on them day to day. Improving muscle strength in the legs should help. Any additional weakness puts pressure on the spine and if your core is weak, there could be impinging going on the nerves that lead down to the legs.
A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
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Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
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Are you standing & walking on concrete mostly? I have a house with a concrete slab floor and my feet hurt a lot if I wear unsupportive shoes. Are you wearing shoes with good support?
Well, not concrete. It's mostly asphalt.
... I suppose that doesn't really help matters, then?
I do have insoles to help - my feet overpronate. Any suggestions for good walking shoes?
@ninerbuff, do you have recommendations for improving leg strength?
Thanks everybody!
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Shoes really depend on your type of arch. If you know your arch type you can google the best running shoe. I have a flat arch and Nike has a flex that gives great support also you can look in to taping your foot for adding support.0
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gunner19er wrote: »Shoes really depend on your type of arch. If you know your arch type you can google the best running shoe. I have a flat arch and Nike has a flex that gives great support also you can look in to taping your foot for adding support.
you don't want running shoes for walking...4 -
What ninerbuff said. Add planks, squats, lunges and gel inserts.4
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Ask a trainer there to give you a review of your current workout and see whether you need to do something different (maybe lower weight until you build up strength and stamina). My gym allowed me to have this type of assessment at no additional charge. You might get some good suggestions on how many reps to do. And I'd only do these leg workouts every other day to give the muscles a chance to repair.1
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Do you have a Good Feet store near you? Maybe they can help.0
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Walking is my main cardio.
The PT I went to for sciatica wanted me squeezing my stomach the whole time I was walking as a core exercise to support my back. At first it was hard to remember, but now I just do it all the time1 -
I agree with all of the above. My feet used to burn after long walks and being on my feet for hours. Your footwear is essential and will give you relief, but don't stop there. I do light yoga, planking, gym routines to strenghten my legs, and rarely have this problem now.3
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TavistockToad wrote: »gunner19er wrote: »Shoes really depend on your type of arch. If you know your arch type you can google the best running shoe. I have a flat arch and Nike has a flex that gives great support also you can look in to taping your foot for adding support.
you don't want running shoes for walking...
Why? I know we're not meant to walk in our running shoes (different gait, compresses them differently etc) if we're still using them for running but my running shoes get 'retired' to walking shoes, which are then retired to pottering-in-the-garden shoes then when they're totally on their last legs they'll head for the recycling bin (usually on their own by then).0 -
I'm a first year teacher and am experiencing sore feet for the first time. I figured it would go away in a day, then two, nope. My feet hurt! ha.0
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HelensBeads wrote: »TavistockToad wrote: »gunner19er wrote: »Shoes really depend on your type of arch. If you know your arch type you can google the best running shoe. I have a flat arch and Nike has a flex that gives great support also you can look in to taping your foot for adding support.
you don't want running shoes for walking...
Why? I know we're not meant to walk in our running shoes (different gait, compresses them differently etc) if we're still using them for running but my running shoes get 'retired' to walking shoes, which are then retired to pottering-in-the-garden shoes then when they're totally on their last legs they'll head for the recycling bin (usually on their own by then).
I'm curious about this myself.0 -
This might sound crazy, and maybe this only applies to me, but are you getting enough protein? When I started running I was in constant discomfort, and was getting plenty of potassium, staying hydrated, being very good, lol.
One day my grandma took me out for a steak dinner, and it was so good that I had the leftovers for breakfast. That day I felt so awesome running and living in general, with just a normal amount of soreness. I started paying attention to how much protein I was eating, and discovered that it wasn't nearly enough. Now I drink some protein after most of my workouts (I don't enjoy running, so I don't do much of that anymore), because I'm still bad at getting enough into my normal diet. It's made a huge difference!3 -
A running shoe should be designed to accommodate a different type of foot strike, usually mid foot, whereas walking shoes should be designed to accommodate heel strike. There are other things too, like lateral stability, etc.5
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Well they're not for running nor walking specifically, but I have Sciatica frtom a back injury and plantar fasciitis flare ups. Walking and standing bother me the most out of any exercise until I found Reebok Crossfit TR. They supposed to be hybrid trainers that you can run in *to some degree*...but all I know is that I no longer need inserts and my back, legs, and feet feel a million times better during workouts as well as walking. And I get compliments on my choice of the chartreuse color. Even better, they're only about $89.00 either through Reebok or Amazon.1
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As a chef, I have had some of the same kind of foot and lower leg issues. This would happen even wearing good shoes and often working on anti-fatigue mats. I have found that magnesium helps a lot. Epson salt soaks in the evening before bed and rubbing magnesium oil on my feet went a long way to relieve the ache.2
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Sometimes sore feet are just sore feet - the term "tenderfoot" comes to mind.
But if you are wearing really supportive shoes that are relatively new, are in good walking shape, and your feet still hurt... I'd see a podiatrist or PT person. Really these people are a wealth of information, and KNOW stuff.1 -
clicketykeys wrote: »I'm a teacher, so I have "lightly active" as my default setting. I also have a summer job that involves a significant amount of walking. Still, there's a part of me that feels like the increase isn't all THAT much - I made sure to get 10k steps in daily during the school year. On the days I work, I get in an average of 18k. I let my step count go lower on my off days (usually 8-9k) but I've started a strength program at a nearby gym.
And my legs and feet ache all the time. It's discomfort, not pain - I can tell that I'm not injured. But it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths. And spinach is my go-to veggie, so I'm pretty sure I'm getting all the potassium I need and then some.
But I'm getting frustrated with it. Does it actually GET any better? Is there something I should be doing that I'm not? Or do people who are more regularly active just accept this and I need to just suck it up?
Everything everyone else said. And also:
From 10k to 18k is almost double your step count. I average about 10k steps a day myself, but a few days recently I got over 20k and let me tell you I could've died.
The thing I remember from having more active jobs in the past vs my current job where I only get like 10k steps (and that's with me really trying to) is that eventually you adjust to it.0 -
When I had a job at Starbucks, my feet would hurt a lot. I had to get some arch supports. I had a favorite kind that they used to sell at Walmart. Unfortunately, they were also my dog's favorite... I think they are the Profoot brand, a pinkish lavender color.0
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clicketykeys wrote: »I'm a teacher, so I have "lightly active" as my default setting. I also have a summer job that involves a significant amount of walking. Still, there's a part of me that feels like the increase isn't all THAT much - I made sure to get 10k steps in daily during the school year. On the days I work, I get in an average of 18k. I let my step count go lower on my off days (usually 8-9k) but I've started a strength program at a nearby gym.
And my legs and feet ache all the time. It's discomfort, not pain - I can tell that I'm not injured. But it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths. And spinach is my go-to veggie, so I'm pretty sure I'm getting all the potassium I need and then some.
But I'm getting frustrated with it. Does it actually GET any better? Is there something I should be doing that I'm not? Or do people who are more regularly active just accept this and I need to just suck it up?
Everything everyone else said. And also:
From 10k to 18k is almost double your step count. I average about 10k steps a day myself, but a few days recently I got over 20k and let me tell you I could've died.
The thing I remember from having more active jobs in the past vs my current job where I only get like 10k steps (and that's with me really trying to) is that eventually you adjust to it.
Yes, this... but I was kinda hoping for something more specific than "eventually." How long IS that?
@SaritaJack my diary is open (I think) and I'm pretty sure I'm getting enough protein- I definitely make that a priority. In addition to being essential for muscle development, I'm hoping it'll toughen up my hair and nails. They started getting more brittle a few years ago.
@bbell1985 what do you teach?
So better shoes might help. Or just toughing it out... only 4-5 more weeks until dress rehearsals mean I won't be able to work, and then I'll be back at school. Also gonna look into magnesium.0 -
clicketykeys wrote: »clicketykeys wrote: »I'm a teacher, so I have "lightly active" as my default setting. I also have a summer job that involves a significant amount of walking. Still, there's a part of me that feels like the increase isn't all THAT much - I made sure to get 10k steps in daily during the school year. On the days I work, I get in an average of 18k. I let my step count go lower on my off days (usually 8-9k) but I've started a strength program at a nearby gym.
And my legs and feet ache all the time. It's discomfort, not pain - I can tell that I'm not injured. But it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths. And spinach is my go-to veggie, so I'm pretty sure I'm getting all the potassium I need and then some.
But I'm getting frustrated with it. Does it actually GET any better? Is there something I should be doing that I'm not? Or do people who are more regularly active just accept this and I need to just suck it up?
Everything everyone else said. And also:
From 10k to 18k is almost double your step count. I average about 10k steps a day myself, but a few days recently I got over 20k and let me tell you I could've died.
The thing I remember from having more active jobs in the past vs my current job where I only get like 10k steps (and that's with me really trying to) is that eventually you adjust to it.
Yes, this... but I was kinda hoping for something more specific than "eventually." How long IS that?
@SaritaJack my diary is open (I think) and I'm pretty sure I'm getting enough protein- I definitely make that a priority. In addition to being essential for muscle development, I'm hoping it'll toughen up my hair and nails. They started getting more brittle a few years ago.
@bbell1985 what do you teach?
So better shoes might help. Or just toughing it out... only 4-5 more weeks until dress rehearsals mean I won't be able to work, and then I'll be back at school. Also gonna look into magnesium.
Music at an elementary school with an at-risk population in Brooklyn. I mean I try to teach music. Some days I just try to get through 45 minutes without anyone getting hurt.4 -
Compression sleeves and a magnesium supplement may help with recovery if it's muscle soreness. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis from being on your feet the good feet store can help. A chiropractor certified in ART can do wonders for you as well.1
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When I worked in retail my feet were always sore at the end of an 8-9 hour shift. And the heavier you are the more that's going to apply, it's a lot harder to hold up 200lbs than 150lbs for prolonged periods. But that was with me stationary or close to for large parts of the day. It did improve when I was finally able to afford a really good pair of shoes.
If I'm walking I can do about 15k steps, in the right shoes, without much issue. Yesterday I did a hike with 27k steps byt the time I was done. And yup, my feet hurt! But they're fine today.
So all depends really on a variety of factors.0 -
I have had great results with walking shoes with memory foam. They are light and have great support--I can walk all day in them.0
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I did get plantar fasciitis LAST year. Podiatrist gave me inserts. They've helped a lot. Definitely going to look into compression sleeves. I doubt there's any way I'm low on magnesium. I go through spinach like I'm Popeye's long-lost cousin
The thing is, I'm tired at the end of a long shift, but it really aches the next morning. Is that DOMS? It doesn't feel quite the same as when I work really hard at the gym, though.0 -
clicketykeys wrote: »I did get plantar fasciitis LAST year. Podiatrist gave me inserts. They've helped a lot. Definitely going to look into compression sleeves. I doubt there's any way I'm low on magnesium. I go through spinach like I'm Popeye's long-lost cousin
The thing is, I'm tired at the end of a long shift, but it really aches the next morning. Is that DOMS? It doesn't feel quite the same as when I work really hard at the gym, though.
Seriously consider those Reebok Crossfit TRs. I was already wearing quality runners, but had the hard powersoles in them and had to transfer the soles to every shoe I wore, and I my PF was so bad. I also wear the toeless compression socks to bed. After a week of adjustment in the Reebok... I use no insoles in any shoes (yay!) and only wear the compression sleeves occasionally. If you find they are uncomfortable... the soles do come out.
Adding tons of deep calf stretches helps prevent PF flare ups, and as well so I focus on stretching them a lot more now. I hope you find you "ahhhhh" product, though. I know it's heinous to live with.3 -
Hey, you! Sometimes my feet/legs just hurt...I get up and walk a little and it eases up. I second the good shoe suggestion (or is it tenth?)...what counts as a good shoe depends on what you like, what feels good and what is available...after many diff types, I've found I really like New Balance. I will wear them for years (getting replacement insoles...). Some people love Reebock/Nike/Sketchers. Try out a bunch, don't settle. If you're on your feet that much, you need decent shoes.1
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clicketykeys wrote: »it's nearly constant (though it's worse in the mornings) and it hasn't improved after a month on the job. I stretch. I take Epsom salt baths.
this is a pretty accurate description . . . it makes me wonder if what you're feeling is more about tendonitis or your fascia than the muscle bellies themselves. especially if you say you know already what doms should feel like and this isn't feeling like that.
something to look into, maybe. i know that i can stretch like a fiend, but there's still a qualitative difference between stretching the entire muscle and releasing the ligaments/tendons and that kind of stuff.
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