14 Lower Half: Legs and Feet

Leg and foot injuries are all too common for farmers and ranchers, given the long hours spent on their feet, navigating uneven terrain, and handling heavy loads. Knee strain, foot pain, and circulation issues often develop over time but are frequently ignored until they become serious problems. Slips, trips, and impact injuries from livestock or equipment can also sideline even the toughest workers.

Common Injuries:

• Knee Strains & Sprains – Twisting, heavy lifting, or repetitive kneeling can overstretch or tear ligaments.
• Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation in the bottom of the foot caused by prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces.
• Fractures & Impact Injuries – Falls, livestock stepping on feet, or getting caught in equipment.
• Shin Splints – Pain and inflammation from excessive walking, running, or uneven terrain.
• Varicose Veins & Circulation Issues – Prolonged standing and heavy lifting can strain blood flow in the legs.

Signs & Symptoms:

• Knee Strains & Sprains – Pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bending the knee.
• Plantar Fasciitis – Sharp pain in the heel or arch, especially in the morning or after long periods on your feet.
• Fractures & Impact Injuries – Severe pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty bearing weight.
• Shin Splints – Aching or sharp pain along the shin, often worse with activity.
• Varicose Veins & Circulation Issues – Swollen, aching legs, visible veins, and cramping after long periods of standing.

Common Conditions with the Legs and Feet:

• Achilles Tendonitis- The achilles tendon can become inflamed due to overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden movements. Farmers and ranchers who frequently lift heavy loads or walk long distances may strain this tendon, leading to pain in the back of the ankle.
• Foot Deformities (e.g., Bunions or Hammer Toes)- Long hours in boots or improper footwear can contribute to foot deformities like bunions (painful bumps at the base of the big toe) or hammer toes (a condition where the toes become bent in a claw-like position). These conditions can lead to chronic pain and difficulty in walking.

Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health. (2024, July 9). Common injuries

Cleveland Clinic. (2025). Foot pain: Causes & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved March 19, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/foot-pain

Mayo Clinic. (2025). Plantar fasciitis: Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 17, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354846

MedlinePlus. (2025). Leg injuries and disorders. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved March 15, 2025, from https://medlineplus.gov/leginjuriesanddisorders.html