Why do your feet and ankles hurt when you first start walking?

When you first start walking after a period of inactivity, your feet and ankles may hurt due to muscle stiffness and weakened ligaments not accustomed to weight-bearing activities. The shock of impact on the joints can also lead to discomfort, especially if proper footwear is not used. Additionally, the muscles and tendons may experience fatigue as they adjust to the new demands of walking. Gradually increasing activity levels can help alleviate this pain over time.