Hiking puts excessive strain on your feet and legs. After all, you're carrying heavy backpacks, gaining elevation and covering several miles in a single day. Hikers commonly have foot problems ranging from blisters and athlete's foot to unusual ailments. A burning sensation is associated with typical foot problems.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal problem that typically develops when feet are exposed to warm, moist environments for long periods. Symptoms include burning, itching and general irritation around the toes, heels and balls of your feet. Hiking is prone to causing athlete's foot because many hikers pass through streams with their boots on, causing their feet to get wet, or they wear waterproof boots that trap moisture caused from sweat. To treat athlete's foot, keep your feet as dry as possible and talk to your doctor about over-the-counter or prescription fungal treatments.
Blisters
Blisters are common among hikers and can form anywhere on the foot. Blisters are caused by any irritation, usually from friction or pressure. New boots and boots that don't fit well are typical culprits, as they may pinch or place uneven pressure on specific areas of your foot. As a blister forms, you probably will feel a burning sensation. Treatment should include draining the fluid, if present, with a sterilized needle, and cushioning and bandaging the affected area.
Paresthesias
According to Christine Dobrowolski, a podiatrist reporting on a study in "The Journal of Wilderness & Environmental Medicine," 34 percent of backpackers who hike at least seven days experience paresthesias. This nerve condition is often caused by uneven pressure on a central nerve; symptoms include burning and numbness on the bottom of the foot. Hikers carrying additional weight for long-distance travels are especially prone to paresthesias. Dobrowolski recommends adjusting your backpack and massaging your feet and legs to provide temporary relief. Usually, symptoms disappear within a few weeks of hiking.
Considerations
When hiking, exercise prevention strategies to avoid foot problems. Wear moisture-wicking socks that help keep your feet dry, even when sweating. Wear comfortable boots that do not pinch or bind. Don't wear new boots on long hikes. Instead, break the boots in at home on progressively longer walks until they are comfortable. Always keep your feet dry, and if you ever feel discomfort, pressure or irritation on your feet, stop immediately and investigate the problem. Sometimes, preventing a burning sensation is as easy as un-bunching a sock or removing a pebble.
