There are few things that will stop a runner in their tracks faster than the emergence of painful blisters.
These fluid-filled sacs resemble fleshy bubbles on the surface of the skin and most commonly appear on the feet as the result of friction from shoes that don’t fit properly. If the fluid sack is ruptured, blisters can become infected and begin to form pus, thus making the already lingering issue even more difficult to deal with.
There are many causes of blisters, including:
Irritation: One of the most common causes of blisters is skin irritation caused by friction or exposure to extreme cold (frostbite) or heat (sunburn). In some other cases, blisters are caused by irritation from contract with certain chemical and could eventually lead to dermatitis.
Allergies: Allergic contact dermatitis, a form of dermatitis or eczema, may result in blisters. Allergic contact dermatitis is caused by an allergy to a chemical or poison. The majority of these poisons are found commonly in nature in plants like poison ivy and poison oak.
Infections: Infections that cause blisters include bullous impetigo, an infection of the skin caused by staphylococci bacteria; viral infections of the lips and genital area due to the herpes simplex virus chickenpox and shingles, which are caused by the varicella zoster virus.
Skin diseases: There are several skin diseases that can cause blisters, including herpetiformis, pemphigoid and pemphigus. There also are inherited forms of blistering skin conditions, such as epidermolysis bullosa.
For the majority of runners, blisters are caused by the friction generated from their shoes or socks rubbing against the skin on their feet. With that in mind, Dr. Ian S. Goldbaum, a podiatric physician and surgeon with over 30 years of experience, believes that reducing friction should be the primary goal for all runners hoping to stave off the formation of these annoyingly painful sacs.
And although there is no perfect method for preventing blisters, these helpful tips should go a long way in keeping them at bay:
Running Tips for Blister Prevention
A good pair of socks: The right pair of socks can often be the difference between a first place finish and an early exit when it comes to blister prevention. Socks provide extra support for our feet, keep moisture away, and can minimize the friction that leads to those nasty blisters. Unlike cotton socks, synthetic socks wick moisture away from the skin and do not retain as much friction-causing fluid.
A second pair of socks: Wearing a thinner pair of socks underneath your primary socks provides a barrier for blisters since the thinner pair of socks stays in place well.
Bandages: For spots on the feet that are notorious for blisters, try applying a soft but secure bandage to problem areas before putting on your socks.
Powders & Lubricants: Applying baby powder to your feet before a run can reduce friction and ease glide. Additionally, adding any lubricants such as petroleum jelly, Body Glide, Blister Shield or Sport Slick will also help to prevent chafing. Since that’s what causes blisters to begin with, it’s in your best interest to lubricate your feet first.
Buy well-fitted shoes: In order to get the best blister prevention, it’s important that you protect your feet with a proper-fitting shoe. At Delray Beach Podiatry, Dr. Goldbaum analyzes his patients gait before crafting a custom-fitted orthotic. The quality and durability of the materials, coupled with the custom molding process, contributes to a higher price tag for custom orthotics, but their durability and comfort often outweigh the cost. Like most things in life, when purchasing orthotics, you get what you pay for.
Upcoming Florida Marathons
Jacksonville Bank Marathon (Jan. 3, 2016)
Walt Disney World Marathon (Jan. 10, 2016)
Miami Marathon (Jan. 24, 2016)
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The content on this website is for informational purposes only. Do not rely or act upon information from www.DelrayBeachPodiatry.com without seeking professional medical advice. If you live in South Florida and would like a consultation with Dr. Ian Goldbaum, a podiatric physician and surgeon with over 30 years of experience, please see our contact information below:
BOCA/DELRAY
16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33445
561-499-0033
BOYNTON BEACH
8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
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