Uncomfortable and painful! Blisters aren’t just the result of new shoes or high heels. There can actually be several causes. In short, they hurt and they’re ugly with open-toed —or closed— shoes! So, what can you do?
What’s Causing The Blister?
Shoes that are too big or too small can not only hurt your feet but, the friction that this causes between your skin and the shoe will naturally cause irritation. Such skin irritation can form blisters.
Going even a step further, wearing the right kind of socks can keep your feet clean and comfortable. For example, cotton socks can make your feet sweaty and cause them to shift around in your shoes. In this case, you’d probably have to adjust your foot to compensate for the movement, resulting in more pain and blisters.
Lastly, if there are specific spots on your feet, that you know are prone to sores, try applying a lubricant. Even so, you might consider a powder to minimize movement in your sock. If you’re concerned about finding the right product, speak to a doctor or podiatrist.
However, “if you do get a blister, be patient and try to leave it alone. Most blisters heal on their own in one to two weeks. Don’t resume the activity that caused your blister until it’s healed,” recommends the American Academy of Dermatology.
Treating The Sore Sight
Admittedly, such sores neither feel nor appear pleasant. These painful blimps may limit which shoes you can wear and can inhibit which outdoor activities you enjoy. But hope isn’t lost. If you’re looking for treatment, note what the American Academy of Dermatology recommends.
- Cover the blister. Loosely cover the blister with a bandage. Bring in the sides of the bandage so that the middle of the bandage is a little raised.
- Use padding. To protect blisters in pressure areas, such as the bottom of your feet, use padding. Cut the padding into a donut shape with a hole in the middle and place it around the blister. Then, cover the blister and padding with a bandage.
- Avoid popping or draining a blister, as this could lead to infection. However, if your blister is large and very painful, it may be necessary to drain the blister to reduce discomfort. To do this, sterilize a small needle using rubbing alcohol. Then, use the needle to carefully pierce one edge of the blister, which will allow some of the fluid to drain.
- Keep the area clean and covered. Once your blister has drained, wash the area with soap and water and apply petroleum jelly. Do not remove the “roof” of the blister, as this will protect the raw skin underneath as it heals.
Be Patient
Ultimately, as your blister heals, watch for signs of an infection and be patient. But, if you notice any redness, pus, or increased pain or swelling, make an appointment to see a doctor or a board-certified dermatologist. Only a medical professional should prescribe any medications to solve the condition.
The information provided herein has been reviewed for accuracy, but cannot be guaranteed to be free of infallalacy. The information herein does not qualify as a diagnosis nor does it substitute a consultation with a licensed physician.
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PUBLISHED: 20170118
UPDATED: 20200302
