This Sunday July 27th is the Run for Wellness 5K in Houston, and as any runner knows, it’s important for your feet to be in good shape. Treating running blisters can easily be done at home, but it takes a little bit of knowledge to avoid further injury.

A blister is an area of skin that has formed a protective pocket. These pockets look like little bubbles, and they are a result of excessive friction. Unfortunately, blisters can also be irritating—especially if they are on the feet. They can occur in anyone, but athletes are more susceptible because of the amount of pressure and friction put on the feet. Even with the right shoes, a blister can form. Since there is sometimes no avoiding them, it’s important to know how to treat a blister so that your downtime is minimized.

Methods for treating a running blister depend on its size and severity. If it is small, the best thing to do is leave it alone and let it heal by itself. If it is in a very irritating position on your foot, you can cover it with a padded bandage to decrease the pressure put on it. Even larger blisters can be left intact as long as they are not painful. If it needs draining, you can do that yourself, too, but only if it is limiting your activity. Always make sure you start with completely clean hands, a sterile needle (wipe it with alcohol), and clean skin (wipe it with iodine or alcohol). Gently puncture a few spots around the edge and let the fluid drain. Afterwards, apply antibacterial ointment and cover it with a bandage. If you notice any signs of infection, seek medical attention right away. As always, if you are diabetic don’t do any of this yourself—see your doctor instead.

For more information about treating running blisters or preventing them, call Dr. Robert Parker at (281) 497-2850 to schedule an appointment at Parker Foot and Ankle in Houston.