New Survey Reveals Widespread Foot Pain Among Standing Workers, Low Use of Orthotic Insoles
A Footminders survey found that 53% of workers who stand or walk for hours experience frequent foot pain, yet only 22% use orthotic insoles, highlighting a gap in workplace wellness.
A new survey from Footminders Inc. reveals that more than half of workers who spend long hours standing or walking experience frequent foot pain, yet a vast majority do not use orthotic insoles to alleviate discomfort. The findings, published in the company's 'Foot Pain at Work Report,' underscore a significant gap in workplace wellness practices and point to potential long-term health implications for employees in industries such as healthcare, retail, construction, and food service.
The survey, conducted online between March 1 and March 11, 2026, among 246 qualified U.S. workers who spend at least four hours per workday standing or walking, found that 53% of respondents experience foot pain several days a week or more. Notably, 42% said their discomfort typically begins before the end of their work shift, indicating that pain sets in during the workday itself. The heel was the most commonly reported pain location, reflecting the strain of prolonged standing or walking.
Despite the high prevalence of foot discomfort, only 22% of workers experiencing weekly foot pain reported using orthotic insoles. Additionally, 44% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the support or comfort of their work shoes. The survey also found that foot pain often extends beyond the workplace, affecting quality of life for 32% of those surveyed.
“These results highlight how common foot pain can be for people whose jobs require long hours on their feet,” said Fred Salomon of Footminders Inc. “Many workers assume soreness is unavoidable, but supportive footwear and orthotic insoles can often make a meaningful difference.”
The findings are particularly relevant for employers and occupational health professionals, as untreated foot pain can lead to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and long-term musculoskeletal issues. The complete report, including industry-specific data and ergonomic analysis, is available in the Foot Pain at Work Report published by Footminders Inc.
Footminders, a Boca Raton-based company that develops podiatrist-designed orthotic insoles, aims to address this gap by promoting the use of supportive footwear and orthotics. The survey results suggest that many workers are unaware of the potential benefits of orthotic insoles, which can help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce strain on the feet.
As industries continue to prioritize employee well-being, these findings highlight a simple yet effective intervention that could improve comfort and health for millions of workers who spend their days on their feet.