Blisters are a common cause of foot pain, but the good news is that they can typically be avoided by taking just a few precautionary measures. Of course, persistent foot pain caused by blisters should be addressed by a podiatrist, like those at Collier Podiatry PA, but in the meantime, there are a few dos and don'ts that you can keep in mind to reduce your chances of blisters.

DO Take Steps to Combat Moisture

Start by understanding the prime conditions in which foot blisters form. Generally, two things need to be present for a blister to form: excess moisture and friction. Fortunately, there are a number of simple ways you can combat moisture on your foot. If you have naturally sweaty feet, for example, consider purchasing a foot powder that you can apply to both your feet and shoes to help whisk away moisture and reduce your chances of a blister forming.

DON'T Ignore a Large Blister

Sometimes--even when taking the proper precautions--blisters can still form. This is especially true if you're wearing a brand new pair of shoes that you're not used to for an extended period of time. If you do develop a blister, try to ignore it and let it heal on its own unless it's gotten large and painful to the point that you're concerned about infection. If this occurs, you can use a sterilized needle to gently pop and drain the blister; just be sure to follow up with a sanitizing cream and bandage.

DO Invest in Pads and Cushions

Since blisters require both moisture and friction to form, you can also take steps to prevent them by cutting down on friction between your feet and shoes. When you buy a pair of shoes, wear them around the house awhile and make note of possible "problem" friction areas. Then, you can purchase pads and cushions for your shoes that will help to cut down on friction and reduce your chances of blister formation.

DON'T Sacrifice Comfort for Style

Finally, understand that while high heels and peep-toe shoes may be fashionable, they're really not good for your feet or your back/posture. Whenever possible, stick to stylish shoes that are also comfortable, such as basic wedges or flats. Your feet will thank you in the long run, and you can avoid the pain of walking around in uncomfortable shoes all day. From there, you can also cut down on your chances of foot pain caused by blisters.

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