Blisters are a minor annoyance but can cause a big irritation and sideline you from your usual activities if they become too painful. A blister forms as a result of friction against the skin which causes the outer layers of the skin to rub against each other and eventually separate and fill with fluid.
At Paul Klein, DPM FASFAC we want to offer a few do’s and don’ts for treating and preventing blisters:
DO: Buy footwear that fits properly. Have your feet professionally measured to be sure of the size. Try on both shoes and walk around the store before buying. A “breaking in” period is a myth. Shoes should fit well from the time you leave the store. Be sure to run your hand around the inside of the shoe as well to check for any loose stitching or rough patches.
DON’T: Stay in socks that are damp and sweaty. After ill-fitting shoes, the second leading cause of blisters is sweaty feet which create friction when socks and shoes rub against them.
DO: Choose moisture wicking socks that keep sweat away from your feet. If you are prone to perspiring heavily, try using a foot powder before putting on your socks.
DON’T: Pop blisters. New skin will form under the irritated area and the fluid will eventually be absorbed back into the tissue. Popping a blister greatly increases your chance of an infection. This is a serious risk for patients with diabetes or other conditions that suppress the circulatory or immune systems.
DO: Avoid making a blister worse. If your skin gets irritated, cover the area with a bandage or piece of moleskin. Do not wear the shoes that caused the blister until it is fully healed.
DO: Make an appointment with our podiatrist, Dr. Paul G. Klein if there is any white or yellow discharge or you notice a bad smell coming from the blister. This may be a sign of an infection and require a visit to our Wayne office for the doctor to evaluate. Contact us by calling: 973-595-1555.
