Hiking Recovery Tips?

Question:

Just had a wonderful time hiking the Grand Canyon. But after 28 miles, I have swollen, painful legs from the knee through the ankle. Any tips for recovery?

Submitted by – Janis, Friendsowood TX

Answer:

Keeping your legs elevated and staying hydrated should provide relief in short order. In fact, if the swelling does not resolve fairly quickly, it might be time to visit your local doc.

There is also the question of why it happened.

Leg swelling is not uncommon on hikes in high heat, and water retention is often the culprit. Staying hydrated can be preventative as well as curative. Some hikers who experience swelling no matter what have resorted to wearing support socks—also called support hose—that apply pressure from toes to just below the knee.