Blisters: Causes and Prevention

Blisters: Causes and Prevention

Although we frequently associate blisters with our feet, this excruciating skin problem can develop anywhere on the body where body parts rub against one another or against clothing. Fortunately, rubbing may be avoided in order to avoid blisters. If you know you’ll be doing excessive physical exercise, take care and give importance to your foot health to prevent blisters.

Blisters: Causes

  • Friction may be to blame if you develop blisters on your feet. The skin rubs against the inside of your shoes, resulting in blisters.
  • Pressure is placed on your feet after several hours of walking or standing each day. Your chance of developing foot blisters increases the more time you spend on your feet during the day.
  • Naturally, not everyone who stands or walks for extended periods gets blisters. These bubbles are frequently the result of improper footwear.
  • This skin problem might also be brought on by excessive moisture or perspiration. This frequently happens to sports people throughout the summer months, especially runners.
  • After a sunburn, blisters might appear on the feet if left unattended.
  • They can also be caused by allergic reactions or infections.

Blisters: Prevention

Here are some suggestions to help avoid new blisters from developing if you have a physically active lifestyle and frequently get blisters.

  • Footwear:  When blisters develop on your foot, shoes are frequently to blame. Avoid wearing shoes that cause your feet to itch or that squeeze or cramp your feet. The ideal footwear may make a world of difference.
  • Cover blister prone areas:  Use soft coverings on sensitive regions of the feet like the back of your heel, the joints of your big and small toes etc. Be cautious in applying the bandages firmly. Blister-prone areas should be protected. You should pad blister-prone regions, just as you would if a blister had already formed there. The additional layer of defense works to stop blisters from developing.
  • Socks: Choose socks that will keep your feet dry after a long day of physical activity. While the other layer provides more padding, the first layer will absorb moisture. Although more expensive, double-layer socks might prevent blisters. Change your socks halfway during a lengthy run or trek, or whenever they start to get wet.
  • Reduce friction: To blister prone spots, you can apply some protective pads recommended by a podiatrist to reduce friction. When your skin brushes together or rubs across clothing, this helps to lessen friction.

Consult your doctor about the treatment options if your blisters are the result of a medical problem. Your risk of developing blisters may decrease if you address the root problem.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we are here to address all your foot concerns. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.