BLISTERS

Blisters are a common problem among all athletes.  Below are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you prevent, identify and manage blisters.

What is a blister?  Blisters are a result of friction.  Friction causes a separation of skin layers and allows fluid to accumulate between the layers.  Blisters can be painful and become infected if not taken care of properly.

Who is more likely to get blisters?  Athletes that use their hands to grip things such as a bat, racquet, club or bar are more prone to blisters.  Feet are likely to develop blisters when they are forced to slide back and forth within a shoe that is making  sudden change of position or when the foot has an abnormal function.

How do you prevent blisters?  Prevention is better than treatment.  Athletes with soft hands and feet are more likely to develop blisters.  These athletes should apply talcum powder or petroleum jelly before an activity to lessen the risk of getting them.  Other ways include wearing gloves on their hands, or wearing tube socks or two pairs of socks on their feet.  Also, try to break in a new pair of shoes before they are used for an extended period of time.

What are the signs and symptoms of blisters?  The athletes will normally experience a “hot spot,” which is a sharp burning feeling. The area should be checked immediately to prevent the blister from getting worse.

How do you manage a blister once you get one?  There are three ways to manage a blister depending on its severity.  Here are the basic rules:

1) The Intact Blister

• Cover it with an antibiotic cream (Neosporin)
• Place a donut pad around the blister
• Monitor the blister for infection
• Replace the bandage often
• When tenderness is gone (5-6 days), remove dead skin and keep clean.

 2) The Open/Torn Blister

      (Less than ½ inch)

• Keep it clean.  First use soap and water, then rinse with liquid antiseptic.
• Lay flap over treated tissue; then apply sterile dressing and cover with a donut pad.
• Monitor daily for infection.

3)  The Open/Torn Blister

       (Greater than ½ inch) 

• Remove the skin using sterile scissors.
• Completely clean the skin with soap and water and apply a non-stinging antiseptic liquid.
• Apply a “second skin” dressing to be worn at all times.

Note: Watch for infection.  The signs of infection are increased skin temperature, redness and tenderness.

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