For walkers suffering from a Blister, these tips can help with treatment and prevention

Is walking a part of your workout routine? It should be! When done regularly, this healthy exercise can lower your risk for certain cancers, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It can even reduce symptoms of depression and increase energy. Unfortunately, without properly fitting shoes, walking also can increase your risk for blisters.

Causes of blisters

Blisters form when the skin rubs against another surface, causing friction. For walkers, poorly fitting shoes are usually to blame for blister development.

Treatment of blisters

No first-aid treatment is usually needed unless the blister breaks or is likely to be damaged by further friction.

• If the blister breaks, wash the area with soap and water, and protect it from further friction with an adhesive bandage.
• Don't pick at the blister or try to remove it. Doing so will leave the skin beneath the blister painful and susceptible to infection.
• If a blister begins to cause pain or looks infected-has redness, is warm to the touch or has pus-like drainage-make an appointment to see your healthcare professional.

Prevention of blisters

Oftentimes, blisters can be prevented. Here's how:

• Check your shoes. Shoes that are too tight can rub against your heel or toes, causing blisters. Shoes that are too loose allow your foot to slide around the inside of the shoe, also causing friction. Shoes should fit snugly, but not too tightly.
• Wear socks. If you are prone to blisters, you may want to try wearing double-layered socks to help protect your feet against friction from shoes.
• Ask your doctor. If there are certain areas of your feet that are especially susceptible to blisters, check with your doctor. The problem may be due to your foot's anatomy and the way you walk, run or stand. Your healthcare professional may recommend specialized shoe inserts called orthotics to help correct the problem.

If you have questions about treating or preventing blisters, talk to your healthcare professional.

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