THE FACTS ON TIRED, ACHY FEET:
WHAT ARE TIRED, ACHY FEET?

Tired, achy feet are a signal that the muscles in the feet have become overworked. Because of the great amount of work the muscles in the feet do to withstand pressure and manage bodily movement, they can become overworked during periods of activity. In other cases, the feet may feel tired and achy even during less than active times.
Tired achy feet is not a medical condition, but instead it’s more of a daily phenomenon related to our physiology and overall strength. It can inhibit daily activities. Mild fatigue and achiness may just be an annoyance. That’s in part because the body has specific biofeedback mechanisms to slow us down when our sensory nerves detect the signs of tired, achy feet or muscle fatigue.
Certain injuries can cause the feet to feel tired and achy. If you’re experiencing persistent pain in your feet, see your doctor. You may have a condition that requires medical attention.
WHAT CAUSES TIRED AND ACHY FEET?

Your feet may feel tired and achy for a number of reasons, including:
Overuse — This is the major cause of muscle fatigue or tired, achy feet. If your job requires you to stand or put pressure on your feet for extended periods, you may experience achiness and fatigue at the end of the day. The feet can also become tired and achy following long stretches of walking or other forms of exercise that strain the feet. Many people experience achy feet at night due to rigorous daytime activity. Achy feet in the morning can also be a problem for some people since the feet don’t always have a chance to fully recover during sleeping hours. It’s not uncommon to have achy feet when waking up.
Improper footwear — Shoes that lack necessary arch support and cushioning can leave the feet feeling tired and achy.
Hard surfaces — Walking and standing on hard surfaces, especially barefoot, can lead to foot fatigue and achiness.
High and fallen arches — People who have very high arches or fallen arches (flat feet) are more likely to suffer from soreness and fatigue because the feet aren’t as effective at stabilizing the body and distributing weight properly.
Extra weight — People who are overweight or obese tend to experience tired, achy feet more often due to excess pressure on the feet.
Foot conditions and injuries — Certain conditions and injuries can cause symptoms that include feelings of fatigue and achiness in the feet. Such injuries include heel spurs, sprains and plantar fasciitis.
HOW TO RELIEVE AND HELP PREVENT TIRED AND ACHY FEET?
There are a number of tired, achy feet home remedies that can help with both relief and prevention, including:
Rest — Avoid overworking your feet by scheduling breaks. Giving your feet regular rest during the day can help reduce strain that can lead to tired, achy feet.
Foot soaks — At the end of a long day, pamper your feet with a rejuvenating foot bath. You can add essential oils or Epsom salt to the water to soothe tired, achy muscles.
Heat therapy — Tired, achy feet can benefit from therapeutic heat. You can use a heating pad or a heat therapy device designed specifically for achy feet relief.
Massage — Regular foot massage can help ease achy muscles and promote relaxation. You can massage your feet with your hands or you can use a specialized tool like a foot roller or massage ball. Dr. Scholl’s® Hot & Cold Foot Massage Ball features a textured surface to stimulate sore feet. The ball can be filled with hot or cold water for additional therapeutic benefits.
Stretching and strengthening exercises — Keeping the feet strong and flexible with regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce soreness and fatigue.
High quality shoes — Choose shoes with good arch support and shock absorbers, especially when you’re going to be walking or standing for long durations.
Shoe insoles — Consider wearing insoles with your shoes for additional support and cushioning. There are several options that can help with tired, achy feet.
Dr. Scholl’s® Stabilizing Support Insoles are designed to promote stability and balance, easing foot pressure that can lead to fatigue and achiness. The insoles can be worn with everyday shoes for all-day comfort.
Dr. Scholl’s® Float-On-Air™ Foam Insoles feature cushioning bubbles that put a bounce in every step to reduce fatigue and allow you to stay on your feet longer without achiness.
Dr. Scholl’s® Eco-Foam™ All-Day Insoles offer an eco-friendly solution for tired, aching feet. Natural and recycled materials cushion and support the feet, reducing soreness and fatigue.