Foot health in the workplace

Orthopaedic aids such as insoles or shoe modifications can help reduce strain. At the upcoming Health & Safety Matters conference in Scotland, ELTEN will present its holistic orthopaedic concept for company employees. The aim of this concept is to find the right safety shoe for each individual, identify personalised solutions for any orthopaedic needs, and proactively promote the health and performance of the workforce.

Why healthy feet matter

More than half of all adults suffer from foot problems. In the worst cases, permanent foot deformities can develop, negatively affecting the entire musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, tendons) and causing chronic issues such as knee or back pain.

For both employees and employers, healthy feet mean maintaining work capacity and reducing sick days. Persistent pain affects performance and concentration, increases error rates and raises the risk of accidents. In short, healthy feet have a major impact on employee wellbeing and satisfaction. A key factor in foot health is the right footwear, which can often help manage foot problems. The rule is: prevention is better than cure.

What will ELTEN present at the conference?

ELTEN will demonstrate how its proven orthopaedic concept helps reduce pain, increase employee satisfaction and reduce absenteeism. At the heart of this is the orthopaedic consultation day, where ELTEN conducts on-site foot measurements at the company. Based on individual foot shapes and specific complaints, the orthopaedic team provides recommendations such as orthopaedic insoles or appropriate shoe modifications. In addition, the importance of fit and shoe model will be demonstrated, as a safety shoe must truly match the foot to ensure comfort, stability and injury prevention. The interaction between standard safety footwear and potential orthopaedic adjustments plays a key role.

Why this topic matters

Foot health is not a luxury, it’s essential for sustainable performance. A company that invests in suitable orthopaedic solutions not only shows care and appreciation for its employees, but also secures economic benefits through reduced sick days and improved work performance.

Orthopaedic insoles from ELTEN

ELTEN, based in Uedem, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of safety footwear. The company’s orthopaedic concept goes far beyond traditional safety shoe provision. ELTEN offers orthopaedic insoles manufactured in its own workshop using 3D printing technology. The experienced orthopaedic team, made up of orthopaedic shoemakers and master craftsmen, supplies these insoles to companies in several European countries, and also across different brands for safety shoes from other manufacturers.

Innovations from ELTEN for better foot health

In this context, the WELLMAXX series is another clear example of how technological innovation contributes to foot health.

The shoes in this series use Infinergy by BASF, an expanded thermoplastic PU foam (E-TPU) that provides both extreme cushioning and a significant rebound effect. This means that hard surfaces are cushioned and impacts to the feet, knees and back are absorbed. This reduces strain on the musculoskeletal system and foot problems can be alleviated.