When hiking, it is important to take proper care of your feet, so you can walk for miles without pain or injury. Foot injuries are among the most common types of injuries when hiking and can easily be prevented by following a few basic tips. Check out our guide below detailing foot care for hikers in Texas, and if you experience pain that is worsening after hiking, contact our Tarrant County sports medicine podiatrist for an evaluation. 
Common Foot Injuries When Hiking in Texas
When you head out on the trail for a hike, various problems can develop that may make it difficult to continue walking.
Problems That Can Develop While Hiking
- Blisters. Blisters are fluid-filled sacs that develop when your foot rubs against your shoe. They can be painful and lead to more serious foot ulcers if not treated properly.
- Plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot. It is caused by a strain to the plantar fascia tendon that runs along the bottom of your foot.
- Achilles tendinitis. Achilles tendinitis happens when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. It can develop after walking up hills or because of overuse and results in pain and swelling at the back of the ankle and heel. The pain often worsens with activity.
- Ankle sprain. An ankle sprain can occur if the ankle rolls inward or outward while hiking. Depending on the severity of the sprain, pain can range from mild to severe.
- Stress fracture. A stress fracture is an overuse injury that can develop if you suddenly increase the intensity of your hikes and their frequency. Stress fractures typically develop in the lower legs or feet. You may experience swelling, pain, and redness at the site of the fracture.
Avoid Foot Problems When Hiking With Our Tarrant County Sports Medicine Podiatrists's Guide to Foot Care for Texas Hikers
The last thing you want to experience on your hike is a problem with your feet, so there are several things you can do protect them. One of the most important things is to wear proper footwear. According to our Tarrant County sports medicine podiatrist for a consultation, the type of shoes or boots you wear on a hike can make all the difference.
How to Choose Footwear
- Wear shoes that are not too tight and have plenty of breathing room
- Avoid shoes or boots that rub or do not anchor to the heel
- Choose shoes or boots with laces, so you can ensure the perfect fit
- Look for footwear with arch support and padding
- Add an orthotic to your shoes or boots for extra support
- Ensure that your footwear is broken in before hiking
In addition, always wear socks in your hiking shoes. Socks can protect your feet and wick away moisture when hiking.
Because you want to be prepared for your hiking adventure, you should take along items that can be used to protect your feet or treat them if an injury occurs.
What to Bring on Your Hike
- Extra pair of dry socks
- First aid kit
- Blister pads or patches
- Moleskin
- Wraps or supports
If you experienced a foot or ankle injury while hiking or have pain that lasts for several days after a hike, contact a podiatrist for an evaluation. A small problem can turn into a bigger issue if not treated properly.
Caring for Foot Wounds
Foot wounds can develop when hiking due to a variety of reasons. If you notice a sore on your foot that is not healing properly, see our sports medicine podiatrist in Tarrant County before it gets worse. Foot ulcers are a serious problem for those who are diabetic and can lead to complications such as infection.
Treating a Foot Wound
- Clean the wound with mild soap and water
- Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage
- Take pressure off the wound
Contact Our Sports Medicine Podiatrist in Tarrant County for an Evaluation
If you have pain or other problems with your feet after hiking, contact our Tarrant County sports medicine podiatrist for a consultation. To request an appointment, reach out to our Grapevine or Keller office through our convenient online contact form or by calling 817-481-4000.
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