Blisters

Cause of Blisters

Friction from clothes or shoes is the usual cause of blisters, the repeated rubbing on the skin causing friction burns. This friction causes the outer layer of skin to separate from the inner layers and the space between fills with fluid.

For athletes wearing in new shoes blisters are a common problem as well as with athletes or walkers who take part in long events such as marathons or long hill walks. Blisters do not need to be a part of sporting life and can be prevented.

How can an athlete prevent blisters?

• Correctly fitting shoes.
• Tape potential 'hot spots' by applying a protective second skin of plaster or tape.
• Ensure all seams on the inside of walking boots are flat. Take care of the boots, do not leave them on radiators or near heaters. This causes the leather to shrink and seams to protrude.
• Wet shoes, boots and socks will cause blisters far quicker than dry ones. Keep feet as dry as possible.
• Change socks as regularly as properly and use foot powder to help keep them dry.

What are the signs of blisters?

• Redness over the skin, often at the back of the heel, the instep or toes.
• Apply a second skin dressing or blister plaster and tape the affected area.
• Ensure the feet are dry and change socks.
• A highly effective, short term measure is the use of petroleum jelly to cover the affected area. This should provide instant relief from pain but petroleum jelly melts with the heat from the foot and so becomes ineffective.

Please see The Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat blisters and other foot problems.