This Blistering Heat

The foot is a common place for blisters, which usually stem from some kind of friction against the skin. Athletes, hikers, and those in the military know about these all too well. Blisters happen when a tear occurs between the top layers of the skin. The bottom stays intact and fluid from your capillaries fills in between the layers. The friction that causes this can come from a few places such as socks, insoles, shoes, or the ground itself. As for the feet, they tend to show up on the back of the heel, the ball of the foot, and your toes.

Your podiatrist is the specialist who will be able to properly diagnose the cause of your blister. They can be caused by tight fitting shoes, hyperhidrosis, or by a structural deformity like a bunion or hammertoe causing more friction against a shoe. There are a few ways to prevent these. Make sure your shoes are properly sized. For athletic shoes make sure there is a little slippage in the heel so the shoe isn’t rubbing too strong. Sockwear can also help prevent blisters. Make sure they are moisture-wicking as this will decrease friction too.

There are different sizes and severities of blisters but your podiatrist will examine the cause to prevent further instances. Remember that popping or tearing a blister isn’t the greatest idea as this could potentially lead to infection. For these and any other question about your feet, come by and see Dr. Grimm or Dr. Pattison.