Nothing gets your spring fitness routine off track faster than a painful blister. Blisters form when something creates friction rubbing against the skin, which then causes the outer layer to separate and fill with fluid. Here are 3 easy ways to keep blisters at bay:

1. Buy shoes that fit It’s no surprise that shoes are the number one cause of blisters. Have your foot professionally measured and buy shoes that are flexible and well made. It’s a myth that shoes need a “breaking in” period—if they don’t feel comfortable from the moment you try them on, don’t buy them.
2. Take care of sweaty feet. Extra moisture, i.e., sweat, can also increase friction and lead to blisters. Choose socks that wick away moisture and if you are prone to sweaty feet use a powder to help keep feet dry.
3. Replace old shoes. When shoes get worn out, they lose their shape and the stitching can begin to fray, both of which can cause a skin irritation on your foot and lead to a blister.

What Can Your Podiatrist Do?

At Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC, we don’t treat blisters very often. However, if you have a deformity of the foot such as a bunion or claw toe, our podiatrists, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele, and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin can help you choose shoes that will minimize the pressure put on those areas. Protective padding or custom orthotics may also be helpful in preventing irritation to the foot which could cause blisters, corns or calluses to form in that area.

Treating Blisters

If you do get a blister, don’t pop it. This can lead to infection. Simply cover the blister with a bandage or gauze pad and allow it to heel. Avoid wearing the shoes that caused the blister in the first place.

If your blister begins to show signs of infection—discharge or bad smell—or you have other questions about your feet and ankles, contact our Monroe or Lambertville office by calling: 734-241-0200 or 734-856-8900 because remember, we are your professional solution to foot & ankle problems.