Blisters on your feet can be a very common, but very painful, problem for folks in all walks of life. They are caused by a lot of different factors. Wet feet, socks that do not fit, new shoes that have not been broken in, or making a repeated movement that you do not normally make can all lead to the formation of foot blisters.
In reality, a foot blister is your body's natural reaction to protect itself. When a particular part on your foot is subjected to an unusual amount of friction, it creates what is known as a hot spot in the area that is being rubbed. The hot spot is an indicator that the sub layers of skin are being damaged by the continuous friction that they are being subjected to. Failure to respond to the hot spot warning sign by either protecting the area or quitting whatever is inducing the friction, will result in your body sending a rush of fluid to build a pad over the point of friction. This is how a foot blister is formed although it is not the blister itself that causes the pain but instead the chafed damaged tissue that is underneath. Knowing how to treat a foot blister will make all the difference in how long it takes to heal
When you get a blister, do you break it or leave it alone
The majority of folks realize from experience that when they break a blister, that makes it worse and leaves it open to infection. Your body formed that buffer of fluid for a reason. If you leave the blister alone, the fluid will eventually be reabsorbed into the body once it has readapted to the new movement. A bandage over your blister will likewise assist to keep it from breaking. If the blister does break of its own accord, or you could not resist draining it, cover the area liberally with antibiotic cream and cover it with a bandage to prevent infection.
If you are into exercising or going for a run every day, you are no doubt careful with all the gear you select for your chosen exercise routine. That being the case, why should you stop short when it comes to choosing the right foot gear such as socks and shoes? Your feet take you everywhere and deserve the best treatment you can give them.
Prevention is always the best medicine
Before embarking out on that five mile run or long walk over the hills, take the time to break in the shoes you will be wearing. Wear them frequently to work out the friction areas and hot spots. When you choose socks, ensure that they will not hold the moisture around your foot. Buy ones that are designed for wicking away moisture, and ensure that they are neither to big, nor too small. Products such as Body Glide can help to reduce rubbing over hot spots as well. You apply these products on places that you think may turn into hot spots before you begin any walking or exercise activity.
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