Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare—skilled professionals who deliver comfort, expertise, and steady support day after day. But the physical demands placed on them can be intense. One of the most widespread challenges is the impact of spending most of a shift standing or walking. Over time, this constant weight-bearing takes a serious toll, contributing not only to physical aches but also to mental fatigue, stress, and burnout.
Understanding how prolonged standing affects the body, and learning practical ways to ease that strain, is essential to protecting the well-being and sustainability of the nursing workforce.
The Hidden Burden of Extended Standing
Being on their feet for hours places ongoing pressure on nurses’ joints, muscles, and circulation. It’s common for nurses to experience swollen legs, sore backs, and stiff hips or knees—issues made worse by hard hospital flooring and fast-paced shifts. Without proper care, these everyday aches can develop into long-term musculoskeletal problems that affect movement, comfort, and job satisfaction.
But the effects aren’t only physical. The combination of physical strain, rapid decision-making, and limited opportunities to rest can heighten emotional fatigue. Over time, this can lead to increased stress, irritability, and reduced compassion reserves. When the body is overworked, the mind often follows.
Practical Ways to Ease the Load
Fortunately, there are effective strategies nurses can use to limit the impact of long shifts on their feet and overall health:
Choose supportive footwear: Shoes with solid arch support, cushioning, and stability help protect joints and reduce muscle fatigue. Regularly replacing worn shoes is just as important as choosing the right pair.
Take short rest and hydration breaks: Drinking enough water supports circulation and helps prevent muscle tightness. Even a few minutes of sitting or stretching can help reset the body during busy shifts.
Incorporate light movement: Gentle stretches or small range-of-motion exercises throughout the day keep blood flowing and reduce stiffness. Building small habits—like stretching during charting or between patients—can make a noticeable difference.
Use cushioned mats: When available, anti-fatigue mats soften the strain caused by hard floors. They’re particularly helpful in areas where prolonged standing is unavoidable.
Vary tasks when possible: Alternating between seated and standing responsibilities gives different muscle groups a chance to rest and recover.
Creating a Healthier Workplace for Nurses
Supporting nurse wellness requires more than individual changes—it calls for organizational awareness and commitment. Healthcare employers can help by offering ergonomic training, providing access to anti-fatigue flooring, and encouraging open communication about physical and emotional challenges.
Flexible scheduling, adequate time between shifts, and a culture that values well-being can dramatically improve nurse retention and morale. When nurses feel supported and listened to, they’re better able to care for others.
Caring for the Caregivers
As staffing shortages continue and turnover remains high, prioritizing nurse wellness is essential for patient care and long-term workforce stability. Reducing the strain caused by extended standing isn’t simply about comfort—it’s about ensuring nurses can work safely, confidently, and sustainably.
By pairing practical self-care strategies with supportive workplace policies, the healthcare system can help nurses stay energized, grounded, and fulfilled. When nurses are well, everyone benefits—patients, teams, and the entire care environment.
Want to learn more about the strain of standing on nurses and how to address it? Check out the accompanying resource from Dansko, a maker of mary jane shoes.
