My wife and i have started hiking. recently, after a 10 miler, she noticed the 2 smallest toes on her right foot become, on & off, numb. possibilities?

Nerve: She has the toe equivalent of carpal tunnel, nerve entrapment/inflammation. She needs to let it rest. Dont stop moving, but dont over use it. She can try anti-inflammatories, but if you're going to hike that much, make sure shoes are very well fitted, and listen to your body if it says 'too much'. If it's not improving within a few weeks, or happens more often, see a doctor.

Neuroma: Neuroma is a likely cause, along with nerve impingement/neuritis due to her shoes. It is easily evaluated in a doctors office (podiatry, ortho), but try something as simple as wider shoes initially. Orthotics can also rebalance the foot and improve overall position, which could diminish her symptoms.