Nobody likes pain in the feet when they are out hiking and enjoying all the beauty that fall brings. Don’t let swelling continue to get in the way of pain-free hiking, read below to find out what you can do to help keep those legs feeling fresh.
Why Does Swelling Occur?
- Edema is the buildup of fluid in the lower legs. This can occur for many different reasons, such as lack of exercise, weight and even spending long periods of time on your feet. As our bodies get tired, our legs can become less efficient at pumping the fluid pooling in our legs back up to the heart. This pooling can lead to edema.
- Inflammation is one of the other main causes of swelling in the lower limbs. Often inflammation is seen when an injury has been sustained or the tissues in the leg are irritated. This occurs as your body’s natural response to protecting itself by triggering an immune response.
What Can You Do?
Wear compression socks! Daily use of graduated compression socks is important to limiting the swelling you experience. Graduated compression socks work to reduce swelling from the lower limb by using pressure. These socks are tightest around the ankle and become looser as they go up the leg. This causes the blood that often pools in the feet and calves to be pushed out and upwards. Targeting this swelling is essential in keeping the legs feeling fresh throughout the day and well into your next hike. With compression socks, fit is everything. At BioPed, our lower limb professionals will take the time to explain everything about compression and measure you to find the perfect fit.
Support your feet! Properly supporting the feet is crucial in reducing how much impact your legs take. This can be best achieved by using proper fitting footwear and shoes. Just like with compression garments, fit is everything with footwear. A great shoe will give you adequate space to allow room for swelling and provide support to keep you upright as you navigate your favourite trail. A great orthotic will help to correct biomechanical abnormalities and change how you apply pressure throughout your feet.
Come See Us!
If you’re suffering from swelling, please book an appointment today! At BioPed Footcare, whether it’s compression socks, orthotics or footwear we are here for you. With our on-site lab there is nothing we can’t do! Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how you can keep your legs and lower body healthy!
