A blister is an elevation of the epidermis containing a water liquid. Friction, heat and moisture lead to blisters. Managing these three components is how blisters are avoided. Correct footwear selection is the first step in eliminating blisters. Along with moisture wicking socks and arch supports, this is all that is needed in most cases to avoid blisters.
The more intense the activity, powders and lubricants come into play to control the increased friction. Powders reduce friction by reducing moisture on the skin. Lubricants create a shield to areas of the skin that are in contact during motion and create friction. Foot anti-perspirants also help reduce moisture on the foot. For those who engage in high impact and endurance sports, taping or using skin tougheners help to protect the foot’s hot spots against friction.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Blood blisters
Symptoms:
- Distinct elevation of the epidermis containing a water liquid
- Tenderness and redness to direct pressure on the blister
Signs to look for:
- Distinct elevation of the epidermis containing a water liquid
- Tenderness and redness to direct pressure on the blister
- Recent activity and shoe wear related to the development of the blister
Possible Causes:
- Combination of friction, heat and moisture on foot
- Shoes that don’t fit the foot causing undue rubbing
- Socks that don’t wick moisture away or activity that creates too much moisture that combines with heat and friction
- Low hydration causing feet to swell, resulting in friction
Goals:
- Correct sizing and shape of the shoe to the foot
- Correct shoes for the activity
- Sock wear that wick moisture away from the foot
- Arch support that takes pressure off the foot’s natural hot spots
- Taping or other protection on hot spots for high impact activity
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotic exercising support
Shoes:
- Attention to correct length, width and depth of shoe
- If engaging in high impact activities, be sure the shoes are the correct shape for the foot or have the personal stride component in them
Other:
- Copper, bamboo or silver socks that wick moisture away from the skin and prevent infection
- Avoid cotton only socks as they retain moisture
- Place cedar shoe trees in shoes after each wearing so shoes always fully dry out
- Use foot anti-perspirant regularly and/or powder with zinc oxide nanotechnology
- Use powder and lubricants if engaging in impact activities
- Use protection on hot spots, such as 2nd Skin or taping if engaging in impact activities
Activities:
- For endurance sports, change socks several times if possible
- Keep up water intake so feet don’t swell and add to the friction
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: J. Vonhof, Fixing Your Feet Text: J. Vonhof, Fixing Your Feet