Feet Ache After Walking Easter Walks Easter Walks After a period of cold and dark winter weather, the temperature is rising. Trees are sprouting fresh green leaves, and flowers begin to bloom and add colour to the landscape. This is a pleasant invitation to explore outside. You may be planning a city break away or trip to the countryside. Going for a long walk or hike is usually extremely enjoyable, I often see patients with foot complaints relating to recent exploring. I therefore thought that I would highlight some of these common complaints so that you may better prepare and help prevent injury. REPETITION Long walking means repetition of foot contact with the ground. If you are walking on a concrete floor (ie. around a city), the ground will be harder than walking across a field, and every step will almost be the same owing to the ground being flat. This increases the type of repetition in comparison to hiking over altering terrain. Common problems from repetition: Overuse injuries to soft tissues including plantar fasciitis Trauma to nails hitting the end of shoes Blister development Callus and corn development from friction and high pressure areas Some tips: Good heel shock absorbency A small arch is usually helpful Use of orthoses "“ custom made insoles can more specifically address your needs Tie laces firmly around the midfoot to stop foot sliding forward. This should reduce blistering and toenails butting up at the end of the shoes Keep nails cut short STABILITY The biggest risk of sudden