Chronic Ankle and Foot Pain in Retail or Hospitality Workers

Q1: Why do retail or hospitality workers often develop chronic ankle and foot pain?
A1: These workers spend long hours standing, walking, and moving on hard surfaces, which can strain the ankle joints, foot arches, and surrounding muscles. Chronic pain can reduce work efficiency, lead to fatigue, and impact overall well-being, creating both physical and emotional stress.

Q2: What are the common symptoms in this group?
A2: Symptoms include aching, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and reduced mobility. Persistent pain can make it difficult to stand for long shifts, walk between stations, or manage customer interactions comfortably, affecting confidence and social engagement.

Q3: What short-term or common remedies do workers usually try first?
A3: Many try:

• Plasters or ankle/foot supports for temporary relief.
• Analgesic gels or creams to ease discomfort.
• Pharmaceutical painkillers such as NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors.
• Acupuncture, which may provide temporary relief.
• Physiotherapy, focusing on stretching, strengthening, and improving stability.

While these measures help temporarily, they may not fully restore function or prevent recurring pain.

Q4: How does The Pain Relief Clinic approach ankle and foot pain differently?
A4: The Pain Relief Clinic emphasizes non-invasive technology, including HotHeal Therapy, shockwave therapy, and targeted physiotherapy, designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and support long-term occupational performance. Their stress-free process allows quick access to diagnostics like MRI. Eligible Singaporeans, permanent residents, and some international patients may use cashless service, removing large upfront payments and letting patients focus on returning to work and daily activities comfortably.

Q5: What preventive measures can help reduce ankle and foot pain for retail or hospitality workers?
A5: Recommendations include supportive footwear, anti-fatigue mats when possible, regular breaks to rest feet, stretching exercises, and strengthening foot and ankle muscles.

Q6: Who is this treatment suitable for?
A6: This approach is ideal for retail or hospitality workers experiencing chronic ankle and foot pain, who want non-invasive, effective relief, stress-free access to diagnostics and treatment, and possibly cashless service, enabling them to perform their duties comfortably and maintain an active lifestyle.