How to care for a foot blister

How do I treat blisters on my feet?

Always try to keep your blister untouched. Skin that has not been damaged (broken) may provide a barrier for infection. It’s important to keep your sore covered by a band aid or moleskin.

If you suspect your blister has become infected contact your doctor. Furthermore, It’s important if you have poor circulation or diabetes to call your doctor before treating it yourself.

If the Blister Has Not Popped:

Try not to drain the blister or pop it
Do your best not to put pressure on the area. If the sore is located in a pressure area such as the bottom of the foot, put a donut-shaped moleskin on it.
Leave it uncovered or cover the blister loosely with an adhesive bandage.

If the Blister Has Popped:

Wash the area with warm water and gentle soap. Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine.
Smooth down the skin flap that remains.
Cover the area loosely with a sterile bandage or gauze.
Apply antibiotic ointment to the area.

Follow Up:

Make sure to change the bandage daily and whenever it gets dirty or wet.
Avoid wearing shoes or doing the activity that caused the sore until the blisters heal.
Wear thick socks or work gloves for sores on the feet or hands.
See a doctor for signs of infection, including pus, fever, the red or warm skin around the blister, red streaks leading away from the blister, swollen lymph glands, or increased pain or swelling, or if your last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago.

Preventive measures:

If you wear shoes that don’t fit well, you could be susceptible to friction blisters. Therefore, make sure to wear shoes that fit. It’s important to prevent or reduce moisture, this is where moisture wicking socks can become helpful in preventing sores. Another prevention method is to use moleskin inside of your shoes which will help reduce blisters on your feet. Although, the use of them inside of your shoes where it may rub inside of your socks is an acceptable spot too. It’s always important to protect your feet at all times.

If you suspect that you are experiencing an infection, schedule an appointment online to visit our lead podiatrists. A South Florida foot doctor located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation.