Prevalence of Plantar Heel Pain among Waitron Staff and Association of Its Severity with the Standing Hours

Abstract

Introduction: Plantar heel pain (PHP), or plantar fasciitis, is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting individuals in occupations involving prolonged standing and walking. Although, PHP is studied in various professions, limited data exist on waitron staff, who are particularly vulnerable due to their physically demanding work.

Objectives: To find out the prevalence of plantar heel pain and investigate the association between standing hours and the severity of plantar heel pain among waitron staff.

Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 95 waiters, aged 25–40 years, working in restaurants, cafes and resto-bars in North Bangalore using convenience sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a standardized questionnaire, including demographic data, pain characteristics, standing duration, and outcome measures: Visual Analogue Scale and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Results: Plantar heel pain prevalence was 62% (n=59), with heel most commonly affected (49.5%). Spearman’s rho showed no significant association between standing hours and VAS score (r=0.054, p=0.604), standing hours and FAAM score (r=0.038, p=0.713), or VAS and FAAM scores (r=-0.032, p=0.759).

Conclusions: This study found a high prevalence (62%) of plantar heel pain among waitron staff, indicating a serious occupational health issue with the heel identified as the most commonly affected site. However, standing hours showed no statistically significant association with pain severity or functional ability. Preventive workplace interventions such as ergonomic flooring, appropriate footwear, and shift rotation to reduce the burden of heel pain are recommended.