A blister is a common skin problem caused by a buildup of fluid between layers of skin. Most blisters are harmless and are easily treated at home. With time, your body will reabsorb the fluid and the outer layer of skin will dry out and peel away. If the blister breaks too early and the new layer of tender skin is exposed, you may experience fresh pain in the area. Rubbing and chafing of the new skin may cause irritation and infection. The best way to take care of your feet is to prevent blisters from forming in the first place, however.
Healing a Blister
Step 1
Unless a blister is painful or interferes with your ability to walk normally, you should not puncture it. The intact skin that covers the blister reduces your risk of infection. Keep the blister clean and dry by covering it with a bandage. Use an adhesive bandage for a small blister or a porous, plastic-coated gauze pad for a larger one.
Step 2
Do not put pressure on the blister and avoid rubbing it. If your shoe rubs against the blister, a moleskin bandage can help relieve the pressure and prevent further irritation to the skin. These adhesive bandages are circular with an open area in the middle.
Step 3
If the blister breaks open, gently wash the exposed skin with soap and water. Apply antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Change the bandage often and replace it after bathing. Monitor the area for signs of infection such as redness, warmth, pus or pain that becomes worse over time.
Draining a Blister
Step 1
You should drain the blister if you are unable to walk or if the area has become painful. Your goal here should be to reduce the fluid that causes pressure but keep the outer layer of skin intact.
Step 2
Wash your hands well with soap and water. Clean the blister and surrounding skin gently by swabbing with iodine or rubbing alcohol.
Step 3
Sterilize a sharp, metal needle by wiping it with rubbing alcohol. Puncture the blister in several locations close to the edge. Allow the fluid to drain.
Step 4
Apply an antibiotic ointment to the area and cover it with a clean bandage or gauze pad.
Step 5
After a few days, the skin over the blister area should dry out and can be removed using scissors that have been sterilized in rubbing alcohol. Continue to reapply antibiotic ointment and keep the area covered until the blister has healed completely. Call your doctor if you see any signs of infection.
Choosing Shoes
Step 1
Measure your foot to determine your shoe size. Many people buy shoes that are not sized correctly for their feet. Your shoe size can change over time so re-measure periodically, especially if you experience frequent blisters or other new foot problems.
Step 2
Try on shoes in the afternoon or evening, when your feet are slightly larger due to normal swelling. You'll get a better idea of how the shoes will feel at the end of a typical day. Spend some time walking around in the store and bring along the socks you plan to wear with the shoes.
Step 3
In the toe area, your shoe should have 1/2-inch to 5/8-inch of empty space from the end of the longest toe to the edge of the shoe. If you have been buying shoes that are too short, this empty space may feel odd at first. You should be able to wiggle your toes. If the heel of the shoe remains in place and does not slip when you walk, then the larger size is correct.
Step 4
People with wide feet may be tempted to purchase shoes that are too long, in order to accommodate the width of their foot. Instead, look for specialty stores that offer styles in several different widths.
Step 5
Consider obtaining an expert gait evaluation before you buy athletic shoes for running, walking and other sports. A podiatrist can assess your biomechanics and advise you on proper shoe selection to reduce blisters and other sports injuries.
Tips and Warnings
- Look for shoes that do not have seams in the toe box area. Stitching may cause chafing and contribute to blister formation.
- People with diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation to the extremities should consult their physician before draining a blister. Your doctor may wish to perform this procedure in the office and may continue to monitor your foot for signs of infection.
Things You'll Need
- Needle
- Antibiotic ointment
- Iodine or rubbing alcohol
- Small scissors
- Bandages
- Gauze pad
- Moleskin
