Rehabilitation strategies and footwear recommendations for nurses in standing environments: a narrative review

Introduction: Prolonged standing can lead to tendon and ligament damage, particularly in the feet and ankles, if preventive measures are not taken. Ill-fitting shoes are associated with increased foot pain and disorders, especially among nurses. This narrative review aims to comprehensively synthesize existing literature on footwear recommendations for nurses in prolonged standing positions, emphasizing healthcare strategies and rehabilitation benefits. It seeks to provide a comprehensive overview while identifying gaps for future research. Methodology: A narrative literature review was conducted using databases such as MEDLINE, CI-NAHL, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Studies were included if they described footwear characteristics and therapeutic indications for workers in prolonged standing contexts, following the PRISMA guideline. Results: Twenty-three studies published between 1998 and 2021 were reviewed, revealing recommendations to reduce gastrocnemius fatigue levels with viscoelastic insoles and arch support. Personalized footwear with cushioning is recommended to decrease peak pressure and alleviate issues like calluses and blisters. Soft shoes help reduce edema formation, while optimizing shoe climate is crucial. The combination of antifatigue mats and sports shoes enhances comfort. Discussion: Current research primarily focuses on insole impact, leaving areas like psychological comfort and footwear design acceptance largely unexplored. Future research should investigate the influence of standing environments and footwear, considering variations in foot health among worker cohorts. Conclusion: Few studies address nurses’ footwear needs. Future research should provide detailed information on footwear characteristics and their podiatric benefits for nurses.