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Blisters are painful, fluid-filled lesions produced by friction and pressure. They can be caused by:
Poor fitting footwear
Stiff shoes
Wrinkled socks against the skin
Excessive moisture
Foot deformities
How can you treat a blister?
Act immediately if you feel any friction or discomfort as blisters can form very quickly.
Examine your feet. If nothing has developed, apply some material or padding to cushion the area or put a breathable plaster on.
Don't pop it. Cut a hole in a piece of foam to form a doughnut over the blister. Tape it in place or cover with a soft dressing.
Treat with mild soap and water, apply an antiseptic ointment and cover with a soft gel dressing to prevent infection and speed up the healing.
Most foot blisters last between 3 and 7 days and will clear up if further excessive friction is avoided.
How can you prevent them
Keep your feet dry and your toenails trimmed
Wear socks of the right size as a cushion between your feet and footwear and change them daily
Wear comfortable, well-fitting footwear
For sweaty feet, use products that help control excess moisture
Ensure the tongue and laces of your boots are arranged correctly and evenly
Check your feet regularly for sign of rubbing and tenderness.
When buying socks, choose socks made of fibres with good ‘wicking’ properties. Or ‘dual layer’ socks where the inner layer moves with the foot, and the outer layer with the shoe - this helps eliminate friction at the skin surface.
When should I see a podiatrist?
If you experience foot care issues which do not resolve themselves naturally or through foot care within three weeks, it's recommended to seek the help of a healthcare professional.
Talk to your trusted podiatrist about the options available regarding treatment.
To book an appointment call us on 01754 765700