The purchase of shoes is an area that cannot be stressed enough in the nursing field. In the past nurses wore the traditional white shoes that set a nurse apart from other professions. Over time, this has changed, and there are several other styles available, with some nurses even choosing to wear either white or black sneakers instead of the traditional shoes. The issue with shoes is that you must toss style for comfort when you are on your feet all day long. Many women, especially the younger ones, prefer style to comfort, but in the years to follow this line of thinking will take a toll on not only their backs but feet as well.

There is a great deal of controversy among health care professional about what shoes are the best for being on your feet eight to twelve hours a day, but the majority seem to feel that Nurse Mates are far from being the most comfortable. In fact, of the reviews published on this subject, many nurses and health care professionals complained that their feet actually hurt at the end of their shift. Although in the past Nurse Mates seemed to be the industry standard, many are headed toward the New Balance walking shoe or the Naturalizer for comfort and durability. Another popular brand is Dansko, which is reported as being quite expensive but also very comfortable and durable. A great many seem to also endorse the use of Dr. Scholl's gel insoles for taking the pressure off the back while working long shifts. Several professionals also endorse the use of custom made orthotics, but the cost at $150 a pair can be out of line for many people.

Since each person's feet adjust to different situations differently, the best thing you can do is go to a store at the end of your shift while your feet are tired and swollen from the day's work and try on several pair of shoes. Once you find the ones that feel the best on your feet, you may choose to go online and order them at a cheaper price than the shoe store has to offer. The important thing to remember is that when you work on your feet, you must take care of them, no matter what the cost may be. Ill-fitting shoes will not only do damage to your feet but to your back as well because of the way you will walk to ease the pain in your feet from the shoes. Even if you buy a cheap uniform at the second hand store, buy the best shoes for your individual feet and don't give a second thought to the cost. After all, if you can't stand on your feet in the nursing profession, you can't do your job.