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Plantar Fasciitis
about plantar fasciitis
how to tape your feet
shoes that relieve heel pain
rehabilitation
Biomechanics
choosing a walking shoe
choosing a running shoe
knee pain & foot
pronation
iliotibial band syndrome
Common Conditions
blisters
bunions
corns & calluses
neuroma
Health & Prevention
heel pain in youngsters
foot support during pregnancy
foot prep for distance running
orthotic foot supports
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Blisters
A blister is an accumulation of fluid under the superficial
skin surfaces, usually caused by excessive heat, friction,
and pressure. The blister and the area around it can become
very sensitive from exposed nerve endings. Continued irritation
may cause greater skin damage, blister rupture, and infection.
Lambswool
available from FootGuru can help cushion and protect areas
of the foot from blister formation.
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FootGuru's Solution
Lambswool
Wraps
prevent blister formation
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Prevention
The best "treatment for blisters is to prevent them in the
first place with the correct fit of shoes, socks, orthotics, and
foot supports.
- Wear shoes that are constructed from breathable materials, i.e.,
leather, or that have design features (vents or mesh design) to
prevent moisture build-up. Air out shoes after use.
- Wear fiber socks specific for the activity for breathability
and “wicking” action which removes moisture from the
foot. Do not use crinkled, soiled, or damp socks.
- Choose shoes with the proper fit and cushion for your foot.
- If you wear foot orthotics,
keep them under the sock liner (insole of the shoe), or remove
the sock liner and use a cushioned cover over the orthotics.
For areas of recurrent blisters, consider
- Applying a film of petroleum jelly over the area of friction.
- Wear two pairs of socks to decrease friction, thin underneath,
cushioned on top.
- Use friction-resistant insoles, such as Spenco®, in your
shoes.
- Second Skin®, moleskin, or lambswool
applied as protection.
Treatment
Soak in cold water or apply ice as soon as possible to reverse the
accumulation of fluid. If a blister is less than one inch in diameter
and you are in no pain, leave it alone. If the blister is painful,
treat it as follows:
- Apply ice cube to the blistered area for several minutes to
numb the area.
- Swab the blister edge with alcohol, allow it to dry.
- Use a sterile pin or needle to make small puncture holes at
the edge of the blister.
- Squeeze the fluid out of the sides by applying gentle pressure
to the top of the blister with gauze.
- Leave the roof of the blister intact and cover the area with
gauze or band aid. No adhesive on the blister itself.
- If the roof of the blister is torn or loose, trim the skin,
apply antibiotic cream and protection.
When to Call the Doctor
If the pain is not reduced in one to three days, or if you
see signs of redness, heat, swelling, or infection.
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