Blisters might be small, but they sure do pack a punch when it comes to foot pain. If you’ve found a blister on your toes or feet, you might be clueless about how to get rid of it. Popping your blister or attempting to take care of it at home usually does more damage. So, what can you do? We’ve listed everything you need to know about blisters and your treatment options!

What Causes Blisters?

There are plenty of reasons a blister can show up. Here are some of the most common ways you can develop one:

1. Friction. Walking or running for extended periods in uncomfortable shoes can tend to cause a blister. If you enjoy ice skating in the winter, you may also find a blister after taking off your skate. Friction blisters usually occur when your feet are warm and moist, which softens the skin and makes it easier for a blister to appear.
2. Cold. Frostbite can create tissue damage which usually ends in a blister.
3. Burns. Blisters can appear after exposure to excessive heat. This includes a sunburn!
4. Chemicals. The after-effects of a chemical burn can include a blister.

Beating Blisters

So, you have a blister. What can you do about it? Luckily, you have plenty of options. The first step is contacting your podiatrist and getting their assistance. While blisters aren’t usually anything to worry about, depending on the severity of your blister and how you got it, it’s better to be safe and work with a trusted foot doctor. From there, you’ll discuss treatment. Until your appointment, here are some things you can do to keep your blister from getting worse:

• Protect your feet by wearing well-fitting shoes and socks. If you find your feet are sensitive and you commonly get blisters from friction, consider wearing two socks or trying out other shoes.
• Cover your blister with a band-aid or soft bandage to prevent it from any more friction or infection. Change daily and gently clean your blister daily with soap and water. Ensure your blister has enough air in between changing your bandage.
• Stop exercising if pain increases
• Never pop or drain a blister at home! This is the easiest way to get an infection. Leave it up to the professionals.

Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.