The Best Way to Care For and Avoid Painful Foot Blisters

By Anna Maria Infante, Chiropodist

Blisters are caused by rubbing of the skin against the shoe. Blisters can occur on any part of the foot. The most common spots are the back of the heel and where the straps lie on the foot in sandals.  In the summer, high temperatures and oppressive humidity make you sweat much more and your feet are likely to become moist, especially when you're walking, jogging or hiking. That moisture isn't just uncomfortable; it's also the source of friction.

Sandals and shoes should be inspected yearly. Depending on the wear of the sandal or shoe it may alter your gait, causing blisters.  This is especially true with sandals because, they may be extremely comfortable one year but the following summer they can be uncomfortable, causing pain and blisters. If a shoe or sandal is uncomfortable it is best to get rid of them before they lead to blisters or other foot pain and injury.

Blister tips: 

• The best way to treat blisters is to keep them covered at all times.  Although you might not wear the shoes that were the culprit, there will still be pressure on the blistered areas. 
• Never open or peel the top off the blister! This exposes the area and makes it vulnerable to infection.  Especially in the summer when wearing sandals and going bare foot triples your exposure of dirt, which can ultimately lead to infection.
• If the blister is small, keep it covered. If the blister is large or painful, lance the blister but leave the roof of the blister on in order to protect the area. 
• Clean the blistered area daily with an antiseptic. Blisters usually take approximately 4 – 5 days to heal.