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Every year, hundreds of pilgrims walk for kilometres towards Fátima. The physical effort, prolonged time on foot and exposure to varied surfaces make the pilgrimage a significant challenge—especially for the feet.

For over two decades, the Portuguese Association of Podiatry (APP) has organised Apoio ao Peregrino (Support for the Pilgrim), a volunteer-based initiative that provides specialised care to those walking long distances.

This year, Dr. Cristina Costa, Podiatrist and Clinical Director of FootStudy – a podiatry clinic in Braga – once again joined APP’s volunteer team, offering on-site support focused on prevention, clinical assessment, and foot health education.

Pilgrimage: Clinical Impact on the Feet

Prolonged walking during a pilgrimage can lead to several foot-related clinical conditions, including:

• Hyperkeratosis and calluses due to continuous friction

• Fissures, blisters, and microtrauma

• Plantar overpressure

• Joint pain and muscle fatigue

• Ingrown toenails or nail deformities

Without proper care, these signs can evolve into infections, chronic wounds, or interrupt the pilgrimage altogether.

How Can Podiatry Help?

During long-distance walking, the podiatrist’s intervention focuses on:

• Plantar support assessment and pressure redistribution

• Treatment of cutaneous and nail alterations

• Guidance on suitable footwear and technical socks

• Education for injury prevention

• Monitoring of clinical warning signs (e.g., infection, persistent pain, gait changes)

“The role of the podiatrist is essential in this type of initiative, offering preventive care and immediate treatment of foot injuries. It promotes well-being, allows pilgrims to continue their path, and honours their faith. It’s also a way of humanising care and being present where it's most needed.”
— Dr. Cristina Costa

5 Tips for Those Preparing for Long Walks

1. Book a podiatric assessment before starting your journey

2. Choose shoes with proper support and suited to your foot morphology

3. Use technical socks and avoid seams or inner folds (or wear them inside-out)

4. Train with the footwear you will use during the pilgrimage

5. Apply absorbent powder before each walk to keep your feet dry and reduce friction (which causes blisters)

6. Keep your feet dry and moisturised during the walk

Commitment to Prevention and Foot Health

At FootStudy, we value the role of preventive podiatry and clinical care in various functional contexts—from sports to prolonged walking such as pilgrimages.
Dr. Cristina Costa’s participation in Apoio ao Peregrino reflects this professional, ethical, and human commitment to promoting foot health in all stages of life and under physical demand.