Reduce Pain Caused by Hiking
By Paul Rothbart
Fall is a time for many enjoyable activities. One of these is hiking. While it's true that you can hike at any time of year, the comfortable temperatures, beautiful foliage, and the last chance to see hibernating creatures make autumn an especially good season to go on a hike. Like any physical activity, hiking can be hard on the body, causing pain. To avoid that pain and be able to keep hiking throughout the season, follow these tips.
Quality Footwear
Whether walking, running, or hiking, your feet bear the brunt of your body weight and exertion. For hiking, you want a good pair of boots or shoes designed specifically for hikers. They should be sturdy but flexible, allowing you to stride comfortably. You want a strong upper to prevent injury from rocks or sticks. A solid and sturdy tread is important too. Trails are often uneven, rocky, and covered with leaves. Slipping and falling can cause serious injury. Make sure they fit well to avoid cramps and blisters.
A Good Backpack
While on a hike, there are things you need to carry such as water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for lengthy jaunts. A first aid kit is also a must-have and you may want to pack a pair of binoculars for animal watching. The traditional way to carry these is a backpack. It keeps your things safe and your arms free. A poorly designed or overloaded backpack can cause stress and pain. Buy a quality pack that will distribute the load properly and hold it securely. Never pack more than you can comfortably carry. Keep in mind that you may be hauling this load for an hour or more. A load that feels comfortable at the start of a hike, may be more than you can bear by the end. Keep your backpack straps secure to hold it in the proper place on your back.
See a Chiropractor
Anyone who engages in physical activities should consider regular chiropractic care. Hikers may benefit as well. Trudging up and down trails carrying a backpack can be tough and the back and joints. Subluxations and other problems may occur that can cause pain and prevent you from hiking again. Seeing a chiropractor throughout the hiking season can help prevent these problems and relieve pain. You can keep hiking throughout the fall.
Hiking is fun and great for the body and mind. It can also be hard on you. Proper gear is important. Consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. No appointment is needed. You may find that seeing a chiropractor regularly helps you hike without pain and keep up an active lifestyle.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Baton Rouge, La.