From Guest Blogger Christopher Austin: What Makes Anti-fatigue Mats Environmentally Green?
An anti-fatigue floor mat looks very similar to any other mat. However, they are designed to prevent slipping and offer as much comfort as possible to anyone who needs to stand all day. The surface is usually made of high density rubber to assist in preventing people slipping over. The best quality ones are designed to be resistant to chemicals, grease and other dangerous materials. Because they’re mostly made of rubber and other recycled materials, anti-fatigue mats can be considered environmentally friendly. The main benefits of an anti-fatigue mats are:
Stress reducer
Research has shown that anyone who needs to stand for elongated periods of time will, if standing on a hard surface, place a substantial amount of stress on their body. The research also confirms that an approved anti-fatigue mat will remove the majority of this stress.
Stress on the human body comes in two main forms:
- Feet – The feet are under the most stress when someone needs to stand for long periods of time. A common problem for those who spend all day standing is plantar fasciitis, also known as heel pain. This is a result of the constant standing which places constant wear and tear on the connective tissues in the foot.
- Lower leg and back pain – This is the normal follow on to foot pain. If the foot pain is not resolved and the person continues to stand all day every day they will start to compensate for the painful foot. This will mean adjusting their stance in an attempt to be more comfortable. Unfortunately, standing differently will invariably result in stress on other joints in the body and this will led to further health problems.
The anti-fatigue mat provides less rigid flooring which encourages much of the force going through the body to be absorbed by the matting. This can dramatically reduce the effect on the body of standing all day and reduce the risk of the above injuries.
Anti-fatigue mats improve blood flow
As the stress is removed from the body it is easier for normal blood flow to happen. An even flow of blood through someone’s feet will reduce the risk of loss of circulations and any potential side effects.
Reduced chance of slipping
Almost any mat will prevent people from slipping over and the anti-fatigue mat is no different. It also provides a cushion should the worst happen. Minimizing impact can make a difference to how much damage someone does to themselves.
Reduce breakages
Most mats will reduce the possibility of items breaking when they hit the mat. Hard floors have no bounce and a falling object is far more likely to break. The anti-fatigue mat, with its ergonomic design will reduce the chance of this happening.
Extra level of comfort
Anyone who has to work standing up will be more comfortable on an anti-fatigue mat. The more comfortable someone is the happier they will be in their role and the more productive they will be. The small cost of an anti-fatigue mat could be work significantly more in additional revenue.
Exercises to help combat foot pain
A twelve ounce can rolled under the arch of each foot for five minutes will stretch the plantar fascia which is in the arch on the foot. Attempting to pick up a towel using only your toes will help to stretch the tendons and muscles in the foot. This should be done approximately thirty times a day. It can also be beneficial to stretch the calf muscles by leaning against a wall with one knee bent and the other leg held straight out behind the body.
Failure to look after your foot can result in expensive strapping and therapy, ultimately surgery can be necessary. An anti-fatigue mat is a far cheaper and more durable option to consider. Made of rubber, these matting systems are comfortable for the feet and non-slippery. They can be used in the home, but also in business environments, such as office buildings, hospitals, and government institutions.
Excellent for business and personal purposes, anti fatigue mats are an environmentally friendly alternative to regular matting systems. They’re just as efficient, they don’t harm the floor, and they effectively trap dirt and grime from people’s feet, thus maintaining a fresh ambiance at home and in the office.
