Back Pain

[mydogsowner]

Hi,

I have a history of chronic back problems and recently started a new job in a busy CCU that I suspect has concrete floors with too little padding. Since working there I have had an increase in low back, hip, and buttock pain. It also is taking me longer to recoup from working a 12 hour shift. I do three in a row, and now spend the rest of the week recovering, and going in again still sore.

I went out and got myself a pair of new New Balance shoes, thinking originally that my old shoes were the problem. I also wear the Birkenstock Blue Footbeds, since they spared me from plantar fasciitis before, at another facility. I have tried the Dansko clogs, but found they didn't suit me as they just felt way too big.

I have searched the web for answers. Since placing "chef's mats" at work is not feasible, anyone have suggestions for shoes, inserts, etc?

I seriously need help here, or I may have to quit my new job because of this problem, which I really do not want to be forced to do.

TIA, Lisa

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

i had knee problems and was instructed by my rheumatologist to always wear good arch supports. i got orthotics and wore them, but my knees continued to give me problems. then a physical therapist recommended either danskos or birkenstocks. the birkenstocks just weren't comfortable to me, but i love the danskos. i even have their dress shoes. (of course it helps that i'm only a 2 hour drive from their outlet! :) )

now i have back issues. the orthopedic surgeon wanted me to walk for 45 minutes every day, so i dragged my athletic shoes out from under the bed and inserted the orthotics and walked 45 minutes every day with an aching back. one day, i got a horrible blister from the shoes, so the next day i walked in my danskos. no back pain! i'm in pt for my back now, and the therapist says she's not surprised. danskos are much better shoes than most athletic shoes, even the $90 new balance i have with less than 200 miles on them.

the moral of this story is, try danskos or birkenstocks and wear whichever feels more comfortable to you.