How to Prevent Hiking Injuries of the Feet and Ankles

9 Tips to Protect Your Feet on Your Hike

Choose a good pair of hiking shoes/boots. Choose a hiking shoe that matches your intended activity level. If you are only planning to walk for a few hours on flat and smooth terrain, you might prefer a lower-cut hiking shoe. But if you plan on carrying more gear or embarking on more challenging and difficult trails, a high-cut hiking boot will provide better ankle support and a stiffer midsole may be more appropriate. Be aware of the outsole of your footwear.  Depending on the material and geometry, the outsole acts as a defensive layer from the small rocks and debris on the trail. Outsoles are designed for traction and cushioning. The harder rubbers used for most hiking boot outsoles are obviously more durable and will grip better on wet and muddy terrain. Additionally, full-grain leather uppers or Gore-Tex are an added benefit for foot protection, durability, and weather resistance.

 Make sure your boots fit! Try before you buy!  Nothing feels worse after a few hours than an ill-fitting hiking boot. Your shoes/boots should not feel tight, but offer good wiggle room for the toes. Because feet tend to swell up after you’ve been hiking for a while, we suggest shopping for footwear later in the day or after exercising. It is recommended to add ½ size to accommodate your feet swelling. It’s better to be ½ size too big than too small. We also suggest trying on your shoes/boots while wearing the same type of socks you’ll be hiking in.

Don’t forget about socks! Breathable, moisture-wicking hiking socks are designed to provide additional cushion to the front and the heel of the foot, they’ll help keep you cool and minimize the risk of blisters. This extra cushion also has a happy side-effect too, – it makes the socks more durable. Every bit of cushion helps prevent the foot from “throbbing” towards the end of a long hike. Some hikers prefer to wear two pairs of socks — a breathable trail sock on the inside, and heavier wool sock on the outside to absorb moisture and keep it away from the feet.

Hiking Compression Socks.  Hiking compression socks can help keep you going longer – and to be less tired when you get there. They’re particularly good for trekkers with varicose veins or other circulation issues. Wearing compression socks while you’re hiking will help increase circulation in the legs, which boosts oxygen and recovery time for muscles and tissue. However, incorrect use of compression socks can injure your skin and create unwanted conditions. If you’re unsure about using hiking compression socks, talk to your primary care provider or your local podiatrist. If you have serious concerns about the blood flow in your legs, Sierra Foot & Ankle does offer services and treatment for neuropathy, a loss of feeling in the feet and legs.

Pre-tape. If you know you have a few “hot spots” where you tend to get blisters, using medical tape on those spots before you begin to hike. This will often help stop them from occurring in the first place.

Foot and Ankle Care for Hikers

As a hiker and backpacker myself, I am passionate about helping outdoor enthusiasts protect their feet and recover quickly and completely from any injuries that keep them from doing what they love.

If you’re currently dealing with a hiking-related injury, or are having problems with foot and ankle pain, then we’re here for you! Sierra Foot & Ankle specializes in many advanced, non-surgical treatments that can help hikers and trekkers of all kinds shorten their recovery time and get back on the trail sooner, including:

• MLS laser therapy
• Shockwave therapy
• Lightweight, 3D-printed custom orthotics

Don’t let painful feet stand in the way of fully enjoying all the gorgeous hikes and trails that the Carson Valley has to offer! Follow the tips above, and please give us a call if you need help. Now go out and enjoy your hike!