3 common causes of blisters and how to prevent them

No pain there is no gain? Not when it comes to blisters. These small pockets of transparent fluid under the skin may seem harmless, but they are anything except, they can even be Frankly weakening If they are in a part of the body, you need to navigate the day (like your feet!).

Unfortunately, they are often part of life if you are active, at least until science finds a way to prevent them from forming. However, it is an impossible dream, since blisters have a real purpose.

What are feet blisters?

“Ampoules are the way to protect you from nature,” says Johanna Yoer, MD, a podiatrist based in New York City. They are formed where there is friction to rub too much, including your hands and feet. “The liquid accumulates between layers of the skin and acts like a cushion,” he explains.

What causes feet blisters?

These are some of the most common reasons why ampoules are formed in their feet.

1. Shoes that do not fit

One of the most common causes of friction ampoules are poorly tight shoes. When there is too much space for your foot to move in loose shoes, it can cause excessive rubbing in the pressure areas, which can form ampoules.

“I have seen some horrible and painful blisters of people who bought shoes that were too big,” says Dr. Yoer. “If the foot rubs intensely with repetitive movementIt will increase the possibilities of a blister. “

2. Moisture

Excessive humidity can also be A great factorsince it can weaken the skin and make it more susceptible to tears. That is why you often feel the unmistakable sensation of a blister that forms when you walk with socks and wet shoes.

3. Allergies

In some cases, blisters or skin irritations can be formed as a result of a allergic reaction to certain chemical or material products.

How to avoid blisters

Follow these tips to prevent blisters from forming on your feet.

1. Invest in the right shoes

Finding well -adjusted shoes can make a big difference in ampoules prevention. “Don’t look at the number,” says Dr. Yoer. “Many people wear shoes that are too small.”

Its best option is to obtain the size of a specialized store in execution that offers a personalized adjustment. Experts measure their march and other physiological aspects of their body and then recommend the best shoe for their unique situation.

Dr. Yoer also recommends using breathable shoes (especially if it has sweat feet) to mitigate moisture.

2. Obtain anti-glass socks

Socks are often a last moment idea, but they are also important. For example, Wrightsock’s Double cape socks It has an inner and outer layer to eliminate excessive friction and humidity. But there are other similar socks that can help prevent ampoules.

Some runners even choose to use pantimedias to the knee under a pair of socks to reduce friction; The idea is that the friction that occurs between your skin and socks, instead, is transferred to the two pairs of socks, leaving your skin alone.

3.

David Newman, an ultramarkon corridor (up to 100 miles at the same time!), Use a serious protection for his wide feet. “For my long races, I foam my feet in Vaseline and then cover ampoules, or places that are often rubbed, with surgical tape,” he says. “That way there is absolutely no rubbing.”

You probably do not need to go so far, but keeping pain at bay can mean the difference between finishing your training or sitting out.

Treatment of the ampoule

Sometimes, blisters simply happen, no matter how many precautions take. When that happens, a lot of FTA is needed to help them heal.

If you notice a “hot point” or pain, put a bandage immediately to avoid more damage, advise Dr. Yoer. “It will act like a second skin and the skin will react to try to repair.”

If you do not have access to a bandage, place a layer between the affected area and whatever you are hurting. A napkin, a paper towel or gauze can help reduce friction, he adds.

“If the ampoule is open, clean with water and water, apply neosporin and a bandage,” he says, adds that liquid bandages are also a solid option to cover the points. “Add dust helps, especially with 100 percent cornstarch. It will absorb moisture and contribute largely to stay safe. “

Should you make blisters?

The backpack Steve Silberberg routinely exploits the blisters when walking With one of its Fitpacking tour groups.

“I put neosporine (or similar antibacterial) (in a blister) and cover with a bandage,” he says. “Then, to allow people to continue walking, I cover everything with adhesive tape.”

That is an extreme way of dealing with them, but exploding is not necessarily dangerous.

“It is better to let nature take its course, but if it hurts when you walk or run, then make the blister,” says Dr. Yer. “Wash your hands, clean the skin and a needle with alcohol. Then drill the blister carefully and push gently to let the fluid out of the ampoule. ”

Apply neosporine and cover with a bandage, advises. “If you have the capacity, remove in the EPSOM salt bath and re -apply the neosporin to avoid infection.” And do not arrange the blis -skinned skin: it hurts and can also increase your infection possibilities.