Podiatry NZ supports well heeled coppers

13 May 2011
Media release from Podiatry New Zealand

Podiatry NZ supports well heeled coppers

The Police Commissioner is right to be concerned about the state of police officers’ feet, says Bruce Baxter, President of Podiatry New Zealand.

In a recent blog, Police Commissioner Peter Marshall said having practical footwear was matter of comfort, health and safety. He has asked for “urgent work on the financial implications” of frontline personnel having appropriate footwear paid for by New Zealand Police.

“Many people try to ignore foot problems, but feet shouldn’t hurt – if they do, that is a sign there is a problem,” said Mr Baxter.

Research shows that while walking, feet can absorb forces equivalent of up to three times a person’s weight.

“Problems that can be aggravated in the workplace include stress fractures, sprains, corns and calluses. Podiatry New Zealand encourages the Commissioner, and others in charge of people who work long hours on their feet, not to buy a ‘one size fits all’ solution.

“Shoes should be fitted to the individual, not taken from the shelf without trying them on. In almost every workplace there is the risk of trips, slips and falls, or objects falling or rolling on to feet. The huge variety of circumstances police officers can find themselves in means their feet are at more risk than others.”

Appropriate footwear can protect feet by insulating them against cold, preventing them from getting wet or by cushioning them from the impact of walking the beat. Poorly fitting shoes can make problems worse and make injury more likely.”

“Podiatrists can help the Commissioner make the right choice,” said Mr Baxter.

Podiatry New Zealand represents podiatrists, highly trained health professionals who specialise in foot care and lower limb conditions.

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