Construction Workers Battling Physical Strain

“Could be from belts and pouches to kneepads and tools. What purchases have you made that have made your life easier? Trying to up my game as an apprentice. Just ordered some insoles cause my feet have been killing me and it got me wondering what else? Bonus points if you can recommend specific models/brands submitted by /u/Reasonable_Breath512 [link] [comments]”

“I work in construction and walk several miles on concrete every day, on top of hauling tools and materials around. It's starting to take a real toll on my knees, hips, shoulders, and back. I recently came across wearable exoskeletons and was wondering if they actually help with fatigue and strain. Has anyone here used one on the job? Did it make a noticeable difference, or was it just bulky and impractical? submitted by /u/Dr_Cheeki_Breeki [link] [comments]”

“I mean realistically everything hurting,chafing in places I never I could,heat rash everywhere, quit smoking bud, always tired now, I mean darn is 30 really the turning point lol considering wearing boxers for the first time in 20 years bc of the heat rash and chafing not a fat guy at all lol boxers just always felt constructing and before anyone says gross I wipe my ass thoroughly and am a very ocd clean person lol submitted by /u/Different-Face9242 [link] [comments]”

“i’ve been doing this for 12 years now, i know not as long as you that have been in this for 50+ or whatever you claim, but i’ve used pro knees ap16s and the leather gundlachs (various versions) and i can’t quite get a knee pad that works/fits for me, i do both carpet and hard surfaces, basically anything besides ceramic( all the power to you if you do ceramic) . but the problem i’m finding is that the ap’s are too bulky to be moving around as much as i do installing lvt/various planking,(i m hes”

“what do you guys get for your knees? my work provides knee pads but they still kinda hurt after a shift. submitted by /u/Salt_Mountain_837 [link] [comments]”

“I've been in construction for 20+ years and have always worn the typical work boot. Nothing fancy, just steel toed high tops. Last year, I decided to buy some slip ons. I kept my old boots just in case someone said something and sent me home.. so far, nothing, and I've been on a lot of major projects. I've even seen safety guys on PCL sites wearing them.. that said, I still think im breaking the rule on ankle protection. I'm curious if anyone's had an issue wearing these on s”

“Hi just curious. Do y'all wash your jeans. 99% of people I see in construction use jeans daily and some don't even wash them at all. There are some dudes dealing with silica dust or asbestos on a daily basis and wear masks and protection but don't wash their jeans after. Is it a health hazard. Should it be something I worry about or should I just knock it off. Asking for a friend. And please if you're gonna mock me in any way just don't. I honestly don't give a fuck.Thank”

“I’m 20 and I’ve been in construction since I was 16. It’s been happening mainly for a few months now but my knees ACHE, I’ve primarily done skirting as a former (temporarily at least) carpenter so lots of kneeling or squatting and and as a painter it’s basically the same thing and it’s really affecting me. I don’t wanna sound like a little bitch but I’m in constant pain when I sit up from sitting, if I have to kneel to fix something my knees feel like they’re on uncooked rice (I’ve tried knee pa”

“I’m 23 years old and have been working for a construction company since I was 18. I’ve always worn timberland boots as they seem to last me the longest, but they’re definitely not the easiest on the feet and I’m starting to feel it now. What’s everybody recommend for the comfiest work boots? If I’m already feeling the wear and tear on my feet at 23, I can’t imagine what I’ll be feeling at 45. submitted by /u/CleanJuice5272 [link] [comments]”

“This. Always put your knees on a pad. I’m 29, been plumbing since 15. Knees already hurt and cannot touch concrete at all anymore. Do not sleep on knee protection.”

“Kind of a random post but just wanted to share my experience. I have been in construction for 10 yrs and had foot and leg pain on and off basically the whole time. Last year it had been getting really bad. Anyway I went to the Foot doctor and after a couple appointments I got the custom orthotics. Total game changer, my feet don't hurt anymore. I feel like I can enjoy my job again Just looking out for yall I'm sure a lot of people in the industry experience this and may not know this is”

“What are your guys favorite (most comfortable + durable) boots for concrete work? Can't seem to find any that can last at all and also be comfortable submitted by /u/wherwillibein20 [link] [comments]”

“I’ve been meaning to ask this for a while. How are your knees actually doing? I’m turning 31 soon and I’ve been in construction and industrial jobs since I was a teenager. I’ve always tried to be somewhat careful.. I use kneepads in my work pants, try not to slam down on them and generally figured I was doing things “right.” But lately, after getting into deck building more seriously, I’ve noticed things getting worse. Way more time on my knees, awkward angles, constant up-and-down… you know the”