How to Treat a Blister on the Foot

Contributor

By Katie Bell
eHow Contributing Writer

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(2 Ratings)

Blisters most commonly occur on the feet and they can become very painful preventing you from running or walking. Blisters are viewed as a minor condition, but they have the ability to prevent people from completing sporting events such as marathons. Blisters are caused by excessive heat or cold traumas to the skin such as a burn or frostbite. Blisters are most commonly caused by repetitive increased pressure or friction on the skin such a from a new pair of shoes. Whatever the cause, they are fairly easy to treat.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A Pharmacy

Step 1

Remove your shoes as this is most likely the cause of the blister. Remove any socks or stockings too. This will reduce the pressure on the area and may relieve the pain instantly.
Step 2

Swab the area around the blister with rubbing alcohol and allow it to dry.
Step 3

Sterilize a needle for 15 seconds in a falme. Be sure to use tweezers to avoid burning your fingers.
Step 4

Puncture the edge of the blister and allow the fluid to drain. Do not run the roof (top) of the blister off as this will make the area very painful and more prone to infection.
Step 5

Bath your foot in warm salty water and you may wish to apply an antibiotic ointment. This needs to be repeated daily until the area has healed.
Step 6

Dress the area with sterile gauze and tape which you can buy from the pharmacy if you do not have at home. This needs to be repeated daily until the area has healed.

Tips & Warnings

Always wear a new pair of shoes at home for a day or two to make sure that they do not irritate your feet.
If you notice any red areas on the skin remove your shoes as a blister is likely to occur.
If you are a runner, you may be prone to blisters. Use surgical spirits on the skin daily for a week or so before a race. This will toughen the skin and make it less likely to blister.
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, an immunological disease or are on medication that slows your healing always seek medical advice before treating for any foot or skin problems.
Seek medical attention from your doctor or podiatrist if the area becomes red, swollen, pusy or does not heal.

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