Walk in the Shoes of a Florida Farmer

Foot health is often overlooked in the workplace especially when it comes to farmers and agriculture/horticulture professionals. Florida’s semi-tropic environmental conditions often result in hot and moist working conditions. Improper footwear, or work boots designed for temperate climates may further contribute to damp feet. This can lead to poor foot health over time. Many of us are reluctant to seek help for our feet, which leads to serious complications later. The objectives were to motivate 50% of attendees in one of three programs to change one behavior and/or adopt a new practice to improve their foot health (exercises, inserts, socks, etc.) and improve their physical mobility and also increase 50% knowledge gain on foot care, safety, and potential foot health risks. One hundred and seventy-four (174) horticultural professionals from three commercial horticulture classes were instructed on foot safety and surveyed on work footwear brands, type of shoe, money spent, and current foot issues. Attendees were invited back to one of two expanded programs collaborating with a podiatrist. He spoke on foot care, safety, improved mobility, and increased awareness of personal foot health risks. Also, he assessed and diagnosed the feet of all attendees. Results indicated that 69% (n = 88) of the attendees were experiencing foot issues: 48% experience foot pain or soreness; 15% have bunions, and/or foot/toe/nail fungal issues; 7% have fallen arches; and 21% experience daily leg pain. After the extension program with the podiatrist, 89% reported increased knowledge of foot care, safety, and potential foot health risks. Ninety-two percent of attendees were committed to change a behavior to improve foot health including: 73% leg/feet exercises; 50% change shoe type/brand; 27% topical creams; and 32% added orthotic/insoles. Twenty-two attendees provided a self-assessed survey after three months for improved or change in foot health. All attendees found the information to be helpful and 97% gained relief and improved foot health.