As the part of our body that will endure the most strain, we must pay special attention and care to them. Here are some tips to follow for an organised trip to the Camino de Santiago and beyond:
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HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR FEET DURING THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
In the days leading up to your journey, start hydrating your feet. If you already do this as part of your daily routine, you’re ahead of the game. Typically, use a moisturising cream to soften your skin and prevent chafing. Evening, just before bed, is an excellent time to do this (wearing socks after applying the cream will enhance the effect).
One of the best and most effective creams we recommend to prevent chafing is Weleda’s Skin Food. It’s also useful for nourishing and repairing hands, elbows, and lips exposed during the Camino (especially in summer and spring when they’re more exposed).
When starting the Camino de Santiago from Sarria, it’s essential to apply this moisturising cream before each stage to prevent dryness and friction with your footwear that could lead to blisters or chafing. You can also use petroleum jelly, though it doesn’t have the same properties as a specialised cream.
After each stage, and especially after the much-needed and relaxing shower, it’s important to rehydrate the soles of your feet, focusing on the heels.
SWOLLEN FEET AT THE END OF THE STAGE
Soak them in warm water with salt, then massage them with moisturising cream, petroleum jelly, or rosemary alcohol, and let them air out.
After showering, it’s advisable to wear sandals or espadrilles to allow your feet to “breathe.”
USE OF SPECIAL SOCKS AND CHOOSING FOOTWEAR TO AVOID BLISTERS AND CHAFING
To avoid chafing and potential blisters, it’s crucial to pay special attention to your choice of footwear. Use trekking shoes or boots you’ve previously worn and broken in.
It’s also essential to wear good seamless cotton socks. Specialised stores sell socks designed to keep your feet dry, and there are also synthetic options that work well. Socks with seams or wrinkles can encourage the formation of blisters. There are also anti-blister socks, but as with anything, they’re not infallible.
Another solution to prevent chafing is to wear a thin sock underneath a thicker one. This trick works well in winter and autumn, but in summer, it could cause excessive sweating.
If you feel slight discomfort in your feet when you start walking, stop immediately and check for redness. If this occurs, clean the area and apply a plaster or dressing to protect it before it turns into a chafing wound or blister.
MUSCLE MASSAGE – SAY GOODBYE TO SORENESS
Before starting the daily stage, after a brief warm-up, we recommend using Weleda’s arnica oil to accelerate muscle toning, protecting them from potential strains, soreness, and injuries. The oil will wrap your muscles in a layer of warmth that activates them before the walk.
After the shower, using this massage oil will also quickly relieve muscle tension.
I HAVE A BLISTER – WHAT DO I DO?
If, despite all the necessary precautions, you end up with a blister, follow these steps:
- Clean the blistered area with disinfectant.
- Using a needle sterilised with alcohol, drain the fluid from the blister by threading a piece of string through it, allowing the liquid to exit. Then, apply Betadine with a gauze and leave it exposed to the air.
- Afterwards, cover the blister with a plaster or cushioned pad, such as “COMPEED,” which helps dry it out.
FOCUS ON YOUR TOENAILS
It’s not just your feet that need care during the Camino de Santiago. Another common source of discomfort is toenails, often caused by poor footwear choices (shoes that are too small and press against the toes on downhill paths, leading to “ingrown toenails”).
Keep your toenails neatly trimmed. If you have calluses or hard skin, it’s best to visit a podiatrist before starting the Camino. In the small first aid kit you should bring, we recommend including nail clippers and a file.
No matter your physical fitness level, your feet will largely determine your enjoyment and ability to complete the journey to Santiago de Compostela. A simple blister can prevent you from taking another step!
Even if your luggage is transported during all the stages, your feet and knees will suffer less, but it’s still important to adhere to these basic care tips.
