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Blisters on the foot can appear due to friction, burn, infection or a blow to the spot. Depending on the region where they appear, blisters can interfere with various daily activities and, therefore, can become a major nuisance, especially when they make walking or putting on shoes more difficult.
Although it seems that bursting the bubble is the quickest and most practical solution to alleviate the discomfort, this should never be an option, because when the bubble pops, a small opening is created in the skin that allows bacteria to enter, which can result in a infection. Therefore, the best way to treat a blister on the foot is usually to relieve pressure on the spot and try to keep the blister intact, as it disappears on its own in a few days.
Tips to treat the blister faster
The best way to treat a blister on your foot is to reduce the pressure on the spot and prevent the blister from bursting. So, some tips include:
- Apply aloe vera gel or aloe-based cream to reduce inflammation. In the case of signs of infection, an antibiotic ointment can be applied;
- Put a band aid on the bubble to avoid friction, if you need to wear a closed shoe;
- Do not wear shoes that are too tight;
- Walking barefoot whenever possible, as the sock can cause friction and worsen the pain.
However, if the blister is very large and is causing a lot of discomfort, it is possible to drain the liquid a little, however, you must use the correct technique to avoid an infection at the site.
How to pop a bubble correctly
Bubble drainage should only be used in cases where other care does not help to alleviate discomfort and, ideally, it should be done by a nurse or other health professional.
The step-by-step to do the drainage is:
- Wash your feet and hands with soap and water;
- Rubbing alcohol on the blister with the help of a piece of cotton;
- Take a needle sterilized or disinfected with alcohol;
- Make a small hole in the bubble using a sterile needle;
- Let the liquid come out of the bubble, but without applying pressure;
- Apply an ointment with fusidic acid or another antibacterial substance on the site;
- Cover the blister with gauze or sterile dressing.
After draining, it is even more important to maintain hygiene care, such as keeping the area always protected with a sterile dressing and avoiding the accumulation of liquid in the dressing.
Why you shouldn't pop the bubble
Ideally, the blister should not be burst because this increases the risk of skin infection. Usually, the blister is produced by the body to protect the inflamed skin tissues. Thus, the bubble prevents blows to the spot and also protects against the entry of viruses and bacteria that can cause an infection.
How to prevent the appearance of bubbles
Most bubbles are caused by a combination of pressure and friction, so you should avoid all factors that may contribute to this combination. Some simple tips that help to prevent blisters include:
- Do not wear shoes that are too tight or wide;
- Avoid putting on synthetic stockings;
- Do not wear shoes that are not suitable for activities that lead to repetitive movements of the feet, such as running;
- Do not wear shoes or socks with wet feet;
- Avoid wearing new shoes for a long time;
- Moisturize your feet well with cream before bed.
By following these precautions it is possible not only to prevent the appearance of blisters, but also to protect your feet, which helps to avoid the feeling of swollen and tired feet at the end of the day. But getting a good foot bath and foot massage before bed is a good idea to improve blood circulation.
See the steps for a great foot massage in the following video: