Blisters

Some people get blisters. That's apparently it. There is really no reason, no cause, no factor that may predict why it should be you who gets them. If you are reading this article chances are that you are a fellow blister sufferer. They may appear without warning, cause untold misery and pain, bring on an unsightly limp, and leave you with wrecked feet for a few days.

According to The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (TSCP), blisters are caused by repeated rubbing from ill fitting footwear and socks or foot deformities, and can be a particular problem with diabetics. Normally they tend to heal within 3 to 7 days.

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TSCP guide for blister prevention includes:

1. Wear well fitting shoes for running and walking

2. Wear special walking socks, or twin skin socks, that are the correct size. You may also try wearing your socks inside out so that the seams don't rub your feet.

3. Change your socks daily

4. Keep your toenails trim

5. Consider using foot antiperspirant sprays if your feet get very sweaty

6. Remove foreign bodies from your footwear or socks

7. Ensure that the tongue and laces are arranged correctly and evenly

8. Check your feet regularly for any signs of rubbing or tenderness

To treat a blister, TSCP recommends to not 'pop' the blister. Instead you should cut a doughnut from felt (or something similar) and wear it around the blister. In case of a burst blister use soap and water to clean it and antiseptic cream to stop it from becoming infected.

Let's face it - blisters are a pain and they may have a significant effect on your walking or running gait. In the long run, if blisters are a persistent problem they may alter the biomechanics of the lower limb as well as the lower back, resulting in compensatory muscular imbalances leading to various ailments such as plantar fasciitis, the runners knee, or even pains around the hip and the low back. In most extreme cases there may be need for orthotics to be worn in the shoes, yet in most cases that should not be needed.

If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at the clinic on 01932 - 429584 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.