Blisters on feet and toes are a common and painful foot condition. A foot blister is a small, fluid filled bubble-like pocket that develops on the upper layers of the skin from damage or friction. Foot blisters are the body’s way of preventing further damage as the collection of fluid under the skin provides cushioning and allows the area to heal. Such blisters can vary in size and depth depending on how they come about. The different types of foot blisters that can develop include clear blisters, blood blisters, or infected blisters. Clear blisters are filled with clear plasma fluid, blood blisters contain blood and show that some of the small blood vessels and skin are damaged, and infected blisters may contain white or yellow tinged pus. Usually, blisters are caused by friction from the foot rubbing against a shoe that is too tight or loose or from walking or running long distances. However, blisters can also arise from infections, burns, extreme weather exposure, existing medical conditions, and chemical exposure. Many foot blisters will heal naturally – the skin will harden and fall off. It is important that one not attempt to burst a blister to avoid infection. If you have a foot blister that is not healing in a timely way, seems to be getting worse, is causing a lot of pain, or appears infected, see a podiatrist who is trained in providing treatment for these types of foot conditions.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Troy Wilde, DPM of Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Phoenix, Gilbert, and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
