- How to treat blister on the foot
- How to drain a bubble properly
- Why you shouldn't pop the bubble
- How to prevent the appearance of bubbles
Blisters are small pockets of liquid that appear on the skin due to friction, burning, 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 appear on the foot and make walking or putting on the shoe more difficult.
Although it seems that bursting the bubble is the quickest and most practical solution to relieve 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 will disappear on its own in a few days.
How to treat blister on the foot
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 may be applied; Place a band-aid over the blister to avoid rubbing, if a closed shoe is required; Do not wear shoes that are too tight; Walk barefoot whenever possible, as the sock can cause friction and make the pain worse.
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 in the area.
How to drain a bubble properly
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 procedure for draining is:
- Wash your feet and hands with soap and water; Pass alcohol in the bubble with the help of a piece of cotton; Take a sterilized or disinfected needle 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 other antibacterial substance on the spot; cover the bubble 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 inflamed skin tissues. Thus, the blister prevents blows 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 wearing socks made of synthetic material; 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 moisturize your feet with cream before bed.
By following these precautions, it is possible not only to prevent the appearance of blisters, but also to protect the 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 to have a great foot massage in the following video:
