Blisters on your feet can be a very familiar, but very painful, problem for folks in all walks of life. They are caused by many different factors. Wet feet, socks that do not fit, new shoes that have not been broken in, or making a repetitive movement that you do not usually make can all lead to the formation of foot blisters.
The blister is actually the body's attempt to protect itself. A point on your foot that is being rubbed by an unusual amount of rubbing is called a hotspot. These hot spots are an indication that the sub layers of your skin are chafing together and that you are causing damage to them. If you do not respond to the hot spot by stopping the activity or by at least doing something to relieve the friction, your body will react by directing a rush of fluid to build a pad over the point of friction. That is how the blister is formed. The actual pain that you feel does not come from the blister itself, it actually comes from the raw damaged tissue that is underneath. If you know how to treat a foot blister the right way, it will likely heal itself a lot quicker.
Some people say to break the blister, while others say not to, so which is the proper course of action
Your body created the little sac of fluid for a reason and acts as a buffer against the irritation. If you leave the blister alone the body will eventually reabsorb the fluid and the skin underneath will grow out painlessly. If you do drain the blister, or it breaks of its own accord, put some antibiotic ointment and a patch over it to keep it from becoming infected. Either way, a patch will help the blister heal by protecting the area or shutting out 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 selecting the proper foot gear such as socks and shoes? Your feet take you everywhere and merit the best treatment you can give them.
Prevention is always the best medicine
Before venturing 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 often to work out the rubbing areas and hot spots. When you pick out socks, make sure that they will not retain the moisture around your foot. Buy ones that are designed for wicking away moisture, and make sure 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 suspect may become hot spots before you begin any walking or exercise activity.
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