Nurse practitioners work very hard at their jobs and are typically on their feet their entire shift. In addition, a double shift is often required when they are short-staffed.
To top it off, a nurse practitioner works at a very fast pace and is generally busy at all times trying to see all of their patients.
After a long hard day at work, it is not usual for a nurse practitioner to put their feet up. In fact, running and standing for long hours eventually plays havoc on a nurse practitioner’s feet and legs.
In fact, according to Real Time Pain Relief and WebMD, standing all day at during work may cause certain health issues such as
- Backaches
- Leg Cramps
- Muscle Twitches
- Knee and Hip Arthritis
- Shoulder and Neck Stiffness
- Significant and prolonged lower limb muscle fatigue
Why Nurses Really Need High-Quality Shoes
When your job requires you to stand all day and run most of the day helping patients, the right type of shoes is a necessity. In fact, being on your feet the entire day put your feet and legs under a lot of stress.
If you are a nurse practitioner, wearing inappropriate shoes can cause a lot of health issues like joint pain, sore arches, and major discomfort. However, a comfortable and supportive shoe can make a huge difference in how your feet and legs feel after and during your shift.
Nursing Shoes for Women – What to Look For
Superior shoes need to work as hard as you do. In fact, your work shoes need to have several features in order to stay comfortable and put less stress on your feet, legs, and back. Some of the most important features to look for in a shoe include
Stability & Support
One of the most important features to look for in a shoe is arch support. In truth, a shoe that has good arch support will often alleviate pain in the legs, feet, and back. Likewise, a shoe that has stability and support will be a lot more comfortable and will keep your feet and legs healthier.
Weight & Comfort
It is very important to consider the weight of your shoes since you wear them almost daily for long hours. Even shoes that are slightly heavy can weigh you down in a short amount of time.
In fact, the extra weight can play havoc on your ankles, heels, legs, and lower back. Besides, there really isn’t any need for carrying extra weight on your feet when you need to wear them for long hours.
Lightweight shoes are very beneficial, especially if move around a lot. They are more forgiving, add spring to your walk, and do not weigh you down.
For extra comfort, consider buying compression socks. In fact, according to Healthline, compression socks may boost leg circulation, support veins, eliminate leg swelling, and help prevent venous ulcers.
Apart from buying lightweight and comfortable nursing shoes, you can consider improving your overall comfort by buying compression socks. Such socks help in circulation and flow of blood, to minimize swelling that is normally observed on those who spend a lot of time on their feet.
Construction & Design
At long last, nursing shoes come in various designs, styles, and construction. Some of the more popular nursing shoes are clogs, tennis shoes, crocs, and athletic shoes.
In addition, each type of shoe has its own benefits and downfalls which will depend on the foot type, the work surface, and any medical issue.
The quality of the material is also important. Leather is a common choice for durability. For a lightweight option, select shoes made of rubber.
On the contrary, avoid materials that are hard to clean such as fabric shoes or suede.
Slip Resistance
It is very important that a nurse practitioner wear shoes that are slip resistant. Oftentimes, a nursing environment includes spills that can be a slipping hazard.
In truth, a slip and fall can result in sprains, broken bones, head injuries, and even concussions. Slip-resistant shoes not only prevent falls but they also make you more productive as a team member because you are less apt to stress about potential falls.
Cheap Shoes vs Expensive Nursing Shoes for Women
For the most part, when it comes to shoes, you really do get what you pay for. Although buying a cheaper shoe is tempting, it will actually cost you a lot more in the long run.
Cheaper shoes do not last long and quickly wear out. In fact, you have to buy another pair quite often.
In addition, cheaper shoes are rarely comfortable and do not offer much support. Eventually, the stress from working long hours and not having supportive shoes will affect your health and well-being.
In truth, the cost of shoe-related health issues is far more expensive than paying for a good pair of supportive shoes. Even with a co-pay, the out-of-pocket expenses can be phenomenal.
A quality pair of shoes will make a huge difference in your disposition, well-being, overall health, and energy. More expensive nursing shoes are made of high-quality fabric for durability, are slip resistant, and supportive, reduce feet and back pain, assist in balance to prevent spinal issues, and they are easy to clean.
What to Watch Out For When Buying Nursing Shoes for Women
When it comes to buying nursing shoes for women, there are a wide variety of shoes to choose from. In fact, the choices can be rather daunting. However, there are certain aspects to look for.
These features will help you determine which shoe will best fit your needs.
- Standard & Uniform – many nurses in the past had to adhere to strict protocols with wearing white nursing shoes and certain dress codes on the job. To be on the safe side, look for shoes that match your uniform or dress code. If you are fortunate to work in a hospital that allows any colors, then you will have many options to choose from.
- Material – shoes made of the right material will offer durability, stain resistance, and comfort. They will also allow your feet to breathe easier and prevent excess sweating.
- Size – always make sure to wear the appropriate size of shoe that fits your feet. Wearing to large of a shoe can be hazardous because they fall off easily. As well, they do not offer much support. Too small a shoe can cause cramping, blisters, and other health issues.
- Safety – nursing shoes should always be slip resistant. Oftentimes, hospitals and other nursing environments have a lot of spills making it easy to fall. Slip resistance will keep you safer on floors that are wet and slippery.
- Price – the price of a shoe should never be a deciding factor when buying quality. If you find the ideal shoe that offers comfort and support, don’t hesitate to buy it.
Top 5 Nursing Shoes for Women – Reviews
Alegria Debra Womens Shoes
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Rubber soles for comfort
- Has a stain resistant upper
Cons
- The sole takes a while to get used to
- Not built for people with bunions or slightly collapsed arches
The stylish Alegria Women’s Debra Slip-On has double elastic gores for simple on and off. It also features a strain-resistant leather upper and is also slip-resistant.
The extremely comfortable shoe comes in a wide array of styles and patterns to fit your individual personality or mood.
Click to view Prices and Reviews On Amazon
Crocs Women’s Mercy Work Clog
Pros
- Slip-resistant heel
- Roomy and comfortable fit
- Superior arch support and footbed
Cons
- Not designed for wide feet
- May make your feet perspire more
The Crocs Mercy is the perfect nursing shoe that delivers supreme arch support and all-day comfort. They are extra roomy and composed of material that helps relieve the pressure on your legs, back, and feet.
In addition, the Crocs Mercy has footbed circulation nubs and superior arch support for ultra-comfort.
Click to View Prices and Reviews On Amazon
Naturalizer Women’s Marianne Sneaker
Pros
- Springy sole
- Breathable lining
- Extra cushioning for comfort
Cons
- A little long and not very wide
- The silver color is more like a bronze tone
The Naturalizer Women’s Marianne Sneaker adds comfort and style to traditional sneakers. These platform shoes are easy to slip off and on and offer all-day comfort on the job.
In addition, the Naturalizer Women’s Marianne Sneaker comes in fashionable colors like mauve, black, oatmeal, cream, white, and pewter crackle.
Click to view Prices and Reviews On Amazon
Nurse Mates Women’s Dove
Pros
- Slip-resistant
- Easy slip-on styling
- Has a lightweight construction
Cons
- Wears down quickly
The Nurse Mates Women’s Dove is a stylish nursing shoe that is easy to slip on, lightweight, and very comfortable. It has a simple smooth design that easily adheres to standards in a hospital or nursing environment.
The Nurse Mates Women’s Dove Oxford comes in black and white.
Click to view Prices and Reviews On Amazon
Still Can’t Decide on Nursing Shoes for Women?
If you still can’t decide which shoe is best to fit your needs, here is one more option that is very popular in the nursing and culinary field.
Birkenstock Unisex Professional Boston Super Grip Leather
Pros
- Extreme durability
- Stylish adjustable strap
- Has a Cushioned signature footbed for comfort
Cons
- Big & boxy looking
- More expensive than traditional nursing shoes
Click to View Prices and Reviews On Amazon
Birkenstock Unisex Professional Boston Super Grip Leather is a versatile clog that can be worn throughout the year. It features a stylish buckle strap for a cozy fit and has a latex footbed that perfectly molds to your feet.
In addition, the deep heel cup aids in distributing your body weight evenly.