Whether it is kindergarten or college, teachers of all types do a lot of standing. If you are not taking preventive measures, tired, achy legs and sore feet can make for very long days at work. Unfortunately, you could also be at risk for developing varicose and spider veins. Standing for long periods of time, giving lectures or writing on the board can actually be detrimental to your leg health. Thankfully, there are some simple things teachers can do to improve leg health, both at work and at home.
Tips for Teachers at Work
- If you are a teacher who must give long lectures or write on chalk or dry erase boards, try pacing a little, even just shifting feet to keep blood circulating.
- If your teaching style is more flexible, try moving around the classroom, or even sitting for short periods of time.
Invest in shoes or insoles that provide sufficient support for your feet. - A good foundation can prevent tired, worn out legs and keep you moving. If you’re unable to move around, try bending your knees and rotating your ankles.
- Both male and female teachers can enjoy the benefits and comfort of prescription grade compression stockings. They apply just the right amount of pressure to prevent varicose and spider veins.
- When getting around from classroom to classroom, take the long way or the stairs whenever you can. You would be surprised how much a little adds up in a week!
If you would like to get a recommendation on what shoes or insoles to get or are interested in compression stockings, you can contact us online or call for an appointment (904) 402-8346.
Tips for Teachers at Home
- Believe it or not, quitting smoking has a big impact on leg health.
- A healthy, nutritious diet isn’t just for your looks. Eating foods rich in vitamins C, E, B6 and B12, or copper, fiber and bioflavonoids will also help keep legs healthy. This includes fruits and vegetables, seafood, seeds, nuts, goat cheese and soy foods.
- Make exercise a habit! You may be thinking “I don’t have time to exercise” but even a brisk 15- 20 minute walk every day will make a difference.
- Practice inverting your legs over heart by lying on your back and raising your feet to the ceiling. If this is too strenuous, you could tuck pillows under your legs to invert them above your heart.
