Our back and spine are most affected when we work on the computer for long hours. But we don’t know that our feet can also affect our posture and cause back pain if we don’t control them.
And in fact, it’s not just the back that suffers from pain and pressure. Feet can also be tense and stressed. If your feet are dangling, too bent, or too immobile, you will feel pain or discomfort over time.
That’s why our feet need the same treatment we give our back or hands when working at the desk.
Comfecto Ergonomic Wood Under Desk Foot Rest
This brand does not take the health of feet for granted.
Their wooden footrest is dedicated to treating muscle cramps and pain in the feet, including nerves, which makes sense because our feet house more than 200 muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It is, therefore, necessary to treat them with care.
Sometimes, our feet are either hanging down or pressed flat on the floor when we sit down. Incorrect foot position can lead to poor circulation, pain, or even injury to the pelvis. Ideally, this problem should be avoided in the first place.
This footrest by Dr. Wood is made of natural pine wood. It is sturdy and durable and can even support you if you sit on it with a maximum weight of 264.5 pounds.
Pros
- 100% pine wood
- Non-toxic
- Curved to go around the feet
- Study and last
Cons
- Can jump and slide
Humanscale FM 300 Foot Machine Footrest
Let me explain. Remember that bike you used to play with when you were young? It looks like the pedals on that bike, but bigger.
Humanscale has several footrests on the market, and it is one of their most popular items. This one has a durable construction: solid hardwood platforms and a steel frame. But I think the star of this product is the 3-position height adjustment and the roller bearings.
It looks incredible because it does a great job. It relieves people who sit too long thanks to the gentle rocking of the feet. This action engages the lower limbs and helps to increase good circulation.
According to studies, moving the feet during work promotes good circulation and dramatically increases work efficiency. It helps to engage the lower back, other than the legs and feet and helps prevent lower back and pelvic pain.
If you want your workspace to be fully ergonomic, this footrest will be the icing on the cake, even if it is under your desk.
Pros
- Large construction
- Durable and stable
- Superb balancing function
- Height adjustments from 3.75 inches to 6.75 inches
- Non-slip
Cons
- None
StrongTek Foot Rest Under Desk
So what does this footrest have to offer?
Well, first, let’s talk about its construction. Each leg is curved. Curved like a literal letter C.
Each leg has rubber grips over the surface to prevent slipping when you swing back and forth. This also prevents damage to the floor surface if you don’t have a mat, mainly if you use hardwood.
It also has a textured non-slip surface with an ultra-fine grain. This helps you gain control and stability whether you wear shoes or not.
Built with Lauan hardwood plywood, this footrest is strong, durable, and reliable. It looks natural and eye-catching.
The 4.4-inch height relieves the upper legs, feet, and ankles. It is lightweight and portable.
It is a great companion for your feet, whether working, playing, studying, etc., especially for long periods. You can also use it for your standing desk if you do the balancing.
Pros
- Curved legs
- Non-slip surface for legs
- Non-slip surface with a granular texture
- Solid and durable
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Height not adjustable
Footrest Buying Guide
Here are a few things to consider when considering using a footrest.
Ergonomics
Of course, footrests must be designed to meet the needs of the feet, as they too get tired at the end of the day. Some models help the feet conform to the footrest, while others have textured coatings to help massage the feet and allow good circulation.
A sloping or tilting footrest is ideal compared to a flat one. It allows more movement to maintain circulation and prevent stress from being in one position for a long time.
Height
Some footrests can be adjusted in height, and others have a fixed height. If you are smaller, take one you can reach, allowing you to rest your feet well. That’s why most people prefer adjustable footrests because they can adjust the height and find the one that suits them best.
Durability
Just because they are for feet doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be durable. On the contrary, they should be treated like a computer desk because that’s where you’ll rest your feet all day or night.
Material
The footrests can be made from wood, steel, and plastic. Whatever the material, it must withstand long and regular use without breaking.
Anti-slip
There’s no point in buying a footrest that moves away from your feet. Convenient footrests should stay in place even if you are the one who moves. Rubber or silicone are usually the ones that are placed on the feet or the bases of the footrests to prevent them from moving.
Size and portability
A large footrest for small feet is fine. But a small footrest for big feet is not good. Many people also prefer their footrest to be portable, if not compact, so that it can be used anywhere in the house or office.
Other Solutions to consider
under-desk cycles
The features are essential, but so is the design. Of course, some may prefer the practical option, but there’s no harm in having an overview of what under-desk cycles can help accomplish in the long run when used correctly.
These exercise bikes or pedal exercisers are not known to be super-efficient in the lower price ranges.
You can read a complete guide and the best under-desk cycles to know more about this solution.
Conclusion
Who needs a footrest? We all do!
If you want your entire workspace to be ergonomic, back-friendly, and posture-friendly, don’t forget to get a footrest. Your footstools won’t work. You need a footrest designed to care for your feet, back, and general well-being.
You must get one if you cross your legs when you work, which is not good. Footrests are also very good for those with cold feet because they raise the feet even without a balancing function.