Blisters

BLISTERS...WHEN GOOD FEET GO BAD

While there are many benefits of aerobic exercise, one drawback is the inevitable, and often quite pesky blister. Blisters can occur in seconds and take days to heal. Here is some information to reduce the chance they will occur, and failing that, how to deal with the little monsters once they rear their ugly bubbles.

How they happen:

Friction on the skin’s surface from the rubbing or pinching that accompanies activity.

What happens when they happen:

Sometimes you feel a “hot spot” as a warning. If not (or if so, and you don’t pay attention), the outer layer of skin will separate from an inner layer allowing fluid to collect and form a small “bubble” or lesion.

Treatment:

• Stop the madness! Cease the activity that produced the friction, and treat the blister.
• Avoid puncturing the blister to reduce the chance of infection.
• So, it ruptures anyway. Try to leave the extra skin intact to protect the sensitive layer below.
• Wash with mild soap, apply antiseptic, and cover with a sterile bandage. 
• Spenco blister pads and second skin (available at Fleet Feet) may allow you to continue your activity.
• Large, painful, or infected blisters may require the attention of a qualified healthcare pro.

Prevention:

• You can sit still all the time, but that’s no fun.
• Wear proper fitting shoes and non-cotton, “wicking” socks.
• Cover blister-prone areas before a workout with protective adhesive padding, or Spenco Blister Pads available at Fleet Feet.