Take a Hike!
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we know one of the best ways for our Manhattan patients to enjoy autumn is by taking a hike. There are many beautiful parks and hiking trails just a short distance out of the city, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall and get some fresh air and exercise. However, it can be a strenuous activity for your feet, so we’d like to offer the following tips for keeping your feet safe and healthy on a hike.
Know the trail; know your limits—Before setting out on a hike, study the trail map and make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. Consider the length of the hike—walking 2 miles of city blocks is very different from 2 miles on a trail. Also, assess the difficulty of the hike, including the terrain and how high up you will climb. Choose a hike that suits your current fitness level.
Wear appropriate footwear—Choose shoes made for hiking and make sure they fit properly. If shoes are new, wear them around at home for several hours before taking them on the trail. If you are prone to ankle sprains, you may find a high-top style more supportive. Condition boots to waterproof them if necessary.
Bring some foot care essentials—Make sure your backpack contains the items you would need to aid you in case of a minor foot problem. Moleskin is essential to apply to sore spots before they become painful blisters. A mini first-aid kit containing bandages, antibacterial ointment, and an elastic wrap or tape will be helpful in case of injury. Also, include a spare pair of socks in case your feet start to feel damp.
Take safety precautions—You should fully charge your cell phone if you need to call for help. Stick to marked trails. Stay vigilant while you hike and be on the lookout for loose stones or roots and branches sticking up on the trail that can cause a fall.
If you experience any foot or ankle pain beyond the normal sore muscles after your hike, contact our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 so that our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff can examine your feet and determine the source of your discomfort.