Can I Stand All Day with PTTD? Tips for On-Your-Feet Jobs

Standing all day with PTTD is challenging—prolonged standing puts continuous stress on your posterior tibial tendon. But many people with PTTD still have standing jobs. Here’s how to manage it.

The Challenge

Your posterior tibial tendon already struggles to support your arch. Standing adds constant load without the relief of movement. By end of day, you might experience increased pain, swelling, and fatigue.

The goal isn’t to eliminate standing—that may not be possible—but to minimize stress on your tendon during work hours.

Strategies That Help

1. Wear the Right Shoes

This is your most important tool. Wear your best supportive shoes with good arch support—every single shift. Consider custom orthotics if you haven’t already. Never stand in bare feet or unsupportive slippers.

2. Take Regular Breaks

• Sit down whenever possible, even just for 5 minutes per hour
• Prop your feet up during breaks to reduce swelling
• If you can’t sit, at least shift your weight frequently

3. Improve Your Floor Surface

• Anti-fatigue mats make a huge difference—invest in a quality one
• Concrete floors are hardest on your feet
• Carpeted areas are easier on your joints

4. Change Your Standing Position

• Shift your weight from foot to foot
• Don’t lock your knees—slight bend is better
• Take short walks when you can
• March in place subtly to keep blood flowing

5. After-Work Care

• Ice your foot if it’s swollen or painful
• Elevate your feet for 20-30 minutes
• Stretch your calves gently
• Rest as much as possible in the evening

Warning Signs It’s Too Much

See a doctor if you notice:

• Pain that gets worse throughout the workday
• Pain at night or at rest
• Increasing swelling that doesn’t go away overnight
• New symptoms appearing

These signs may mean you need treatment changes or work accommodations.

Job Accommodations to Request

You have rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (or similar laws elsewhere). Consider requesting:

• An anti-fatigue mat for your workstation
• A sit-stand workstation if available
• Scheduled breaks to sit
• Temporary modified duties (less standing)
• Permission to wear your supportive shoes if uniform codes apply

The Bottom Line

You can often stand all day with PTTD if you’re strategic about it—great shoes, regular breaks, anti-fatigue mats, and good after-work care. But listen to your body. If symptoms are worsening, talk to your doctor about accommodations or treatment options.