An added prevention method would be to choose loose, comfortable clothing for your walks. Also good for the prevention of chafing is the use of talcum powder or cornstarch. A greatly recommended use for prevention is to use a lubricant depending on which type you use it can promote healing as well as hindrance of chaffing. If chaffing does have an effect on you the best treatment is to wash with water and soap in cool to luke warm water, subsequently apply an antibacterial ointment and apply a sterile dressing. (The walking site.).
Also associated to walking can be the delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). This is quite common but can also be extremely annoying. DOMS is due to the stretching and microscopic tearing of the muscle fibers. Along with the tearing swelling can also occur around the muscles. The tearing of muscle fibers can be done in many circumstances, walking down a flight of stairs, walking down hill, or doing squats. DOMS may or may not occur in numerous people but if taken care of right away can heal without any problems.
To put a stop to DOMS you should make sure you warm up before starting your walks; you should also complete some easy stretches to get your muscles ready for your activity. If you are just beginning you should start out slowly just like with any type of exercise, and gradually increase your pace. After completing your walk you should also perform some stretching in modified proportion to prevent cramping and soreness in your muscles. (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness).
Treatment of DOMS is uncomplicated and should not take more than three to seven days to go away. The first step in healing is to use the RICE principle, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Avoid doing any vigorous activity, gently massage the affected muscles and apply a little muscle relief ointment. In addition some over the counter anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin or ibuprofen can help control the pain and increase the reduction of swelling.