How Rubber Can Reduce Joint Pain
If you stand or walk around for extended periods of time, you will eventually realize that your legs and feet are a little sore. Constant standing and walking is required for some jobs and, without proper anti-fatigue matting set in place, fatigue can cause discomfort and reduce productivity levels. Rubber is the ideal material for anti-fatigue matting due to its elasticity and ability to absorb the force of impact. This allows for a cushioned surface that will relieve pressure on legs joints and lower back region.
Rubber is the ideal material for creating a comfortable surface to walk and stand on due to its natural elasticity and shock absorbing qualities. As an elastomer, rubber is able to absorb the force of impact and “bounce” back into its original form. This “bouncing” quality of rubber is what gives rubber its cushiony impact surface. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, “Standing effectively reduces the blood supply to the loaded muscles. Insufficient blood flow accelerates the onset of fatigue and causes pain in the muscles of the legs, back and neck” (ccohs.ca). Rubber can reduce the stress and pressure imposed on these areas by providing a soft, cushioned flooring surface.
The most common places you will find rubber anti-fatigue matting are work places. This is because employers are required to provide some sort of anti-fatigue matting in place to avoid workplace injuries and promote productivity. However, anti-fatigue mats can also be used residentially in kitchens or home work stations. To accommodate possible grease/oil splashes of the kitchen and to provide enhanced cushioning, rubberized gel foam mats are available with added nitrile rubber to resist the effects of grease and oils in the kitchen.
Overall, anti-fatigue mats are ideal for any work place or general area where it is required to be on your feet for extended periods of time. It will increase productivity and reduce the chances of long-term joint pain by creating a comfortable area for you to stand and walk on.
