If you are not running in the right type of shoes, you are more likely to develop blisters on your feet. Running can be caused by your shoes not fitting properly or running far distances without first breaking in the running sneakers. Moisture in the shoes may also increase the prevalence of running blisters. If you notice signs of an infection, such as redness, pain and swelling, consult a doctor.
Drainage
If the blister is large and full of fluid, drain it to reduce any pain you may feel while it heals. You must sterilize the needle or razor blade that you plan to use to prick the blister. Boil the needle or razor blade for 10 minutes and allow time to cool on a disinfected surface. Pierce the blister and allow the fluid to drain out. Make a straight line incision to cut into the blister. Avoid pulling off the skin after the fluid has been removed.
Disinfecting
After piercing a blister, use an antibiotic ointment on the skin irritation to prevent infection. Dress the blister with a dry bandaging material and leave the bandage in place until the blister heals. Some bandage manufacturers make specialty blister bandages to promote healing.
Bandaging
A moleskin pad may be used as treatment for your running blister. To use the pad, you must first cut it into a small donut shape and position it over the blister. Adhere the moleskin pad to your skin and resume normal activities. The pad absorbs the shock of walking or running to reduce irritation when suffering from a blister. Once the blister had healed, discard the pad.
Considerations
In the case that the blister is small and not bothersome, no treatment is required. The blister heals naturally and should be left alone. To prevent future recurrences, wear sweat-proof socks and lubricate your feet with petroleum jelly before runs. Choose shoes that are tight enough where your foot does not move around a lot while running, but loose enough where you don't feel any discomfort.
