There are many factors that can cause a blister.  It can be an increase in your pace while running or walking, improper footwear – shoes too small for your feet, some type of foot deformity such as: bunions, hammertoes or pump bumps on the back of your heels or a high pressure area on your orthotics – especially during the break in period.  One of these factors in combination with the heat and increased moisture will intensify the rubbing and increase friction during exercise or activity. Our feet then respond to this friction and begins to produce fluid beneath the skin which then results in pressure and pain.  A blood blister occurs when tiny blood vessels rupture by the friction.

TREATMENT

There is mixed reviews out there stating whether to drain the blister or not drain the blister.  If you do decided to drain the blister, the pain and pressure will decrease.  If you decide not to drain the blister, you may run the risk of having it rupture on it’s own depending the size of the actual blister that has developed.  Either way you choose, make sure you cover the exposed blister with a clean bandage so the area will not become infected.

PREVENTION

To prevent a blister from developing again, check your footwear and see if they are a proper fit and are not over a year old (depending on how much activity you do in them).  Have your orthotics checked in case of any high pressure areas developing and lastly, check the type of socks you are wearing while out for a run or walk.  Changing your socks from a cotton to a synthetic-type material can wick moisture away from the skin.