Foot Blisters: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Foot blisters, those small, fluid-filled bubbles that appear on the skin, can cause discomfort and pain. Whether you are an avid hiker or someone who just enjoys an occasional walk, understanding the causes of blisters on the foot how to treat them, and how to prevent them can make your journey smoother and more comfortable.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Blister?
• Causes of Blisters on the Foot
• How Long Do Blisters Last?
• Should You Pop a Blister on Your Foot?
• How to Treat Blisters
• How to Prevent Blisters
• Products to Aid in Blister Care
• When to see a Doctor
• Alternative Treatments
• Selecting the Right Footwear
• Conclusion

What Is a Blister?

A blister is a tiny sac of fluid that develops in the outer layers of the skin. The type of fluid inside can be serum, plasma, blood, or pus depending on the cause and nature of the blister.

Friction blisters are the most common and usually occur when the skin is repeatedly rubbed, as with tight shoes or during physical activities like running. The outer layer of the skin separates from the inner layers, and body fluid accumulates in the space to protect the tissue underneath. The fluid acts as a natural cushion, which helps to reduce pressure and irritation to the delicate tissue layers below.

Causes of Blisters on the Foot

Foot blisters can be attributed to various factors:

• Friction: Repetitive rubbing of the skin, particularly in badly fitting shoes.
• Heat: Exposing feet to high temperatures or scalds.
• Moisture: Wet conditions, like sweaty shoes, soften the skin making it more susceptible to friction.
• Medical Conditions: Such as fungal infections or allergies.

How Long Do Blisters Last?

Most blisters heal on their own within 3 to 7 days if not subjected to additional irritation or infection. The healing process of a blister involves the body’s natural response to protect and repair the skin. Here’s an expanded explanation of the process:

Day 1-3: Fluid Accumulation: When a blister forms, the body sends fluid to the damaged skin to protect it. This fluid is essentially plasma, which accumulates between the upper layers of the skin, causing a raised bubble. The body uses this as a natural cushion to protect the tender skin beneath from further damage.

Day 3-5: Reabsorption and New Skin Formation: Around the third day, the body begins to reabsorb the fluid in the blister. At this point, new skin starts forming underneath the blister. The blister may begin to decrease in size as the fluid gets reabsorbed, and the area may start to dry out.

Day 5-7: Drying and Flattening: As the new skin continues to develop under the blister, the top layer of the blister starts to dry out and flatten. It is crucial during this period to avoid picking at or peeling off the blister’s skin, as the skin underneath may still be sensitive and prone to infection.

Day 7 onwards: Complete Healing: By the seventh day, most blisters should be healed. The dead skin from the blister will eventually fall off naturally. The new skin underneath is usually slightly red or pink but will gradually return to a normal colour over time.

Remember that the healing times can vary based on individual factors, such as overall health, age, and how well the blister is cared for during the healing process.

Should You Pop a Blister on Your Foot?

It’s usually best to not pop a blister, as this can increase the risk of infection. However, if the blister is large and in an area where it’s likely to burst, it might be necessary to carefully drain it to avoid further discomfort.

How to treat Blisters

To support the natural healing process, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

Keep it Clean: Ensure the blister and surrounding area are clean to minimise the risk of infection.

Protect the Blister: Use a bandage or blister plaster to protect the blister from additional friction. You can use special gel padding for extra cushioning.

Use a Hydrocolloid based plaster: Hydrocolloid blister plasters are dressings made of exudate-absorbent hydrophilic gel. When applied to a deroofed blister that is releasing fluid, the hydrocolloid material absorbs the liquid and transforms into a gel. They aid in maintaining a moist wound environment, absorb wound fluids and promote natural healing by helping with autolytic debridement. Plus, they provide a barrier against harmful micro-organisms and help manage pain.

Avoid Further Irritation: Refrain from wearing shoes or using equipment that caused the blister in the first place. If you must wear shoes, make sure they are well-fitted and, if necessary, use heel snugs or other padding materials.

Monitor for Infection: Pay attention to signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If you notice any of these signs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

How to Prevent Blisters

Avoid wearing new shoes for long periods: new shoes often have a break-in period. Wear them for short durations initially to avoid blisters.

Use Padding and Bandages: If you know that an area on your foot is prone to blisters, use padding or bandages to reduce friction. You can find a range of padding products here.

Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks: These types of socks can help keep your feet dry and reduce the chances of getting blisters.

It is vital to handle blisters with care to prevent complications. If you are uncertain or if the blister looks infected, it’s always a good idea to seek medical advice.

Protect areas prone to blistering with padding like our Multi use gel padding or bandages.

Products to Aid in Blister Care

Take advantage of products that can aid in the care and prevention of foot blisters:

Blister Plasters: Profoot Blister Plasters provide comprehensive care for blisters. By promoting a moist environment, they enhance wound healing, while their ability to absorb wound fluids facilitates autolytic debridement, a natural form of healing. Moreover, they safeguard against harmful micro-organisms and assist in pain management.

Multi-Use Gel Padding: Profoot SoftGel Multi-Use Gel Padding is an ideal solution for those dealing with foot discomfort caused by blisters, bunions, corns, calluses, or any discomfort arising from pressure and rubbing. With the use of cutting-edge polymer gel technology, the SoftGel Padding delivers exceptional cushioning and safeguards the sensitive areas.

Blister Plasters Mixed Pack: Each pack of Profoot Blister Plasters Mixed Pack contains six plasters in three different types: 2x Oval, 2x Universal, and 2x Long. These offer instant relief from painful blisters, prevent painful rubbing, and are designed to stay put – making them perfect for sports and other activities.

Heel Snugs: Profoot Heel Snugs feature soft, extra-thick padding that helps to eliminate slipping and rubbing, and prevents blisters. The Heel Snugs are designed to fit into the heel of any shoe, providing a secure grip that remains in place for long-lasting comfort.

Chiropody Felt: Profoot Chiropody Felt is the perfect solution for relieving and redistributing pressure and friction on any area of the foot. This medical grade super-soft padding can be easily cut to any shape and adhered to either the skin or the inside of footwear.

When to See a Doctor

While most foot blisters are minor and can be managed at home, there are instances when it is wise to seek medical attention. If the blister is showing signs of infection such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, it’s time to consult a doctor. Additionally, individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems should be especially vigilant, as even small blisters can escalate into more severe issues.

Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies

In some cases, people turn to alternative treatments and home remedies for relief:

Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing properties, applying aloe vera gel can alleviate the pain and promote healing.
Green Tea: Soaking your blister in cooled green tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties, may reduce swelling and discomfort.
Apple Cider Vinegar: While it may sting a bit, dabbing apple cider vinegar on the blister can act as an antiseptic.

Please remember that while home remedies can be helpful, they are not a substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Selecting the Right Footwear

Choosing the correct footwear is crucial in blister prevention. Look for shoes that fit well without being too tight or too loose. Ensure there’s enough space around the toes, and that the shoe securely holds the heel. For activities like hiking, it’s worth investing in specialised footwear designed to provide support and minimise friction.

Conclusion

Foot blisters, though common, can be a source of discomfort and pain. By understanding the causes and adopting preventative measures, you can minimise the chances of getting a blister. However, if a blister becomes infected or if you have an underlying health condition, it’s essential to seek medical advice. With the right care, knowledge, and footwear, you can keep your feet happy and blister-free!

Thank you for reading this article. Should you have any further queries or need additional information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Here’s to happy and healthy feet!