Wheeling Walks Challenge: Week #2

What to do for sore feet

If your feet hurt, you're not going to enjoy your walk. Some common foot problems are fairly easy to treat and easier still to avoid. Here's how not to get sidelined:

• To avoid blisters, stop them before they start. Keep your feet dry. Steer clear of cotton socks, which soak up perspiration and stretch out of shape. Wear socks made with fibers that draw moisture away from your skin. Or slip on a sock liner under your cotton socks. Rub petroleum jelly on your feet and between your toes before gearing up. This will reduce irritation that can lead to blisters. And finally, don't lace your shoes too tightly or too loosely. The pinching and rubbing may cause blister-forming irritation.
  
  
• Pounding usually causes aching arches when you walk. The first thing you need to do is check your form. Are you landing on your heel and pushing off with your toes? If the problem persists, arch supports might help; if that doesn't work, consult your podiatrist or a sports doctor.
  
  
• Corns and calluses are painful, and the more you ignore them, the worse they get. Check your shoes to make sure you've got a comfortable fit. And toss thin socks: You need to have a nice cushion between your feet and inside your shoes.
  
  
• Blackened toenails are common and painful, and are caused when your big toe hits the front of your shoe. Keep your toenails neatly trimmed and filed. Check your shoe size and wear double socks on the smaller foot if the shoe is too loose. Most people have one foot that's larger than the other. Always buy your walking shoes for the larger foot.