Don’t Let Blisters Make Your Spring Workout a Bust

19 Apr Don’t Let Blisters Make Your Spring Workout a Bust

The weather’s finally getting warm and you are excited to start a new walking program to help shed a few winter pounds and get in shape for summer. You head out the first day and come home with a painful blister and your plan is immediately derailed! At Great Neck Family Foot Care, we know just how frustrating that can be so here are some tips for preventing and treating blisters.

What’s Causing the Blister?

Blisters are caused by friction. Something rubs against the skin of your foot repeatedly, causing the outer layer of skin to separate and then fill with fluid. The most common culprit is your shoes. Shoes can rub if they don’t fit properly and that’s why getting your foot measured by a footwear professional is well worth it. Shoes should feel comfortable from the moment you leave the store. Remember to run your hand around the inside of your shoes and check for loose stitching or rough fabric. This can also cause a blister. Sweaty feet are more prone to blisters. Wear moisture wicking socks and if you sweat excessively, consider a foot powder to help keep feet dry. If you have a foot deformity such as a bunion or hammertoe, there is a greater chance of a blister forming in that area. Our podiatrists, Alec Hochstein, DPM, or Diana Gagliano, DPM can offer suggestions for shoes that will accommodate your deformity or prescribe padding or orthotics to position the foot in a way that will help prevent pressure on those areas.

Treatment for Blisters

If despite your best efforts you end up with a blister, what should you do?

• Don’t pop it! Doing so will greatly increase you risk of infection. This is particularly dangerous if you have diabetes or problems with circulation.
• Put a gauze pad or bandage over the blister until it heals.
• Do not wear the shoes that caused the blister.

Most of the time, blisters will not require a visit to the foot doctor. If, however, you notice a pus-like discharge or the blister is emitting a foul odor, make an appointment at our Great Neck office to get it checked out. If you or your loved one is unable to come into our office, we’ll come to you. Call (516) 482-5999 to find out about house calls.