A blister is a fluid-filled bubble that forms on the skin. The fluid can be clear or contain some blood. When blisters develop between the toes, it can be painful, particularly if one spends a lot of time on their feet. Two types of blisters that can form between the toes are those caused by friction and those not due to friction. These blisters look alike, but their location and how they come about differ. Friction or pinch blisters usually result from repeated rubbing of one toe against the other or against the inner lining of a shoe and the skin becomes irritated. These blisters often form near the tip or base of a toe. Non-friction blisters often come from an allergy or infection. Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that can cause blisters between the toes. Insect bites or an allergic reaction to the material of one’s socks can cause such blisters as well. For non-friction blisters, a good foot health routine may help resolve the problem. This includes washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, cutting the toenails frequently and straight across, and making sure to examine the feet regularly. For both types of blisters, wearing well-fitting shoes that provide ample room for the toes to move will help. One should not pop these blisters as it is easy for bacteria to enter through open skin. They can be covered with bandages while healing takes place. If you suffer from toe blister pain, it may be hard to tell which type of blister you have and it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is a Blister?
A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin.
Treatment
If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment.
Prevention
You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
