The warm water may help relieve pain. Avoid foot soaking if you have diabetes. As a diabetic, you’re more likely to develop foot problems and infections.

Never place ice directly on your skin, as that can lead to frostbite.

Gently move your toes back and forth with your fingers to stretch the muscles. Repeat with the other foot. If you have someone willing, you can even ask them to massage your feet!

Talk to your doctor about which NSAIDs are right for you. If over-the-counter versions aren’t enough, discuss prescription options. Always read the bottle for the recommended dosages.

Check the bottle for recommended dosages. Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter pain medication. Don’t mix it with alcohol. Also, be aware that this medication is in many over-the-counter medication mixes, such as cold-relief drugs. Always check the bottles so you don’t overdose on acetaminophen. Don’t exceed 4,000 milligrams of acetaminophen in 24 hours, and avoid using it longer than 3 days in a row. [5] X Research source

You can find these at your local drugstore.

Hold this position for 30 seconds then repeat on the other side. Try doing 3 sets of this exercise.

Switch to the other foot when you’re done.

Once you’ve picked the washcloth up, release it and pick it up again, aiming for at least 10 times with each foot. This exercise will also increase flexibility.

Straighten the front leg again and repeat the exercise 10 times on each side. You can also step forward slightly with your front leg, which will bend your back leg a little.

You can find these at drugstores, online, or at medical supply stores.

If you do want to double up on socks, always try on shoes with double socks to see how they fit.

If you don’t have a padded mat at work, ask your boss if you can get one. You might say, “Can I speak to you for a minute? I was wondering if you’d consider putting in anti-fatigue mats behind the counter. They don’t cost very much and they prevent your employees from tiring out so quickly because they provide cushioning. That means we can work harder for you!”

Go to a shoe store that specializes in measuring feet and finding the correct fit. Try to get measured annually for shoes. Some chiropractors and osteopaths may have a selection of special shoes to help you with your support.

Shop for shoes after a day of work. Your feet swell throughout the day, so you want shoes that will still fit comfortably at the end of the day. Once you buy a pair, it’s a good idea to walk around in them for a bit before trying to work in them. That way, you can see if they are painful or if they rub in a particular spot.

To check if the shoe will support your arch, take the insole out of the shoe, if possible, and hold it up to your foot. If it matches the contours of your foot, it’s likely a good fit. If not, you may need to get another pair. [17] X Research source If you don’t want to buy new shoes, look for shoe inserts made for people with high arches.

If you don’t have access to a machine that reads your feet, look at the bottom of your shoes. If you have a normal gait, they should be worn in the middle of your heel and the middle of the ball of your foot. If they’re worn more to the outer edge or more to the inner edge, find insoles that will help correct that issue. You can find insoles online, in drug stores, or in some shoe stores.