Athletes of all levels can experience blisters during their training and events. Blisters can be caused by friction from rubbing against shoes, clothes, and other equipment. Blisters are a common issue for athletes due to the constant movement and rubbing against surfaces. While blisters can be a nuisance, there are steps athletes can take to prevent and treat them.
What Causes Blisters?
Blisters are caused by friction and the heat generated when two surfaces rub against each other. The friction causes the skin to separate, forming a pocket of fluid between the layers of skin. The most common causes of blisters in athletes are:
- Shoes: Shoes that are too tight or not fitted correctly can cause blisters, particularly around the heel, toes, and arch.
- Clothes: Tight clothes or clothes that are too loose can also cause blisters.
- Equipment: Any sports equipment that rubs against the skin can cause blisters, such as a tennis racket, golf club, or bicycle handlebars.
- Extremes of Temperature: Blisters can form in extreme temperatures, such as very hot or cold weather.
How to Prevent Blisters
The best way to treat blisters is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing blisters:
- Wear Proper Shoes: Make sure to wear shoes that fit properly and are designed for the type of activity you are doing.
- Check Your Clothes: Tight clothing can cause blisters, so make sure to wear clothes that fit properly and are not too tight or loose.
- Use Protective Gear: If you are using sports equipment, make sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, socks, or tape to reduce friction.
- Keep Your Skin Dry: Moisture can cause blisters, so make sure to keep your skin dry while exercising.
- Use Lubricants: Use lubricants, such as petroleum jelly or talcum powder, to reduce friction and keep your skin dry.
How to Treat Blisters
If a blister does form, there are several steps you can take to treat it:
- Clean the Area: Clean the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection.
- Drain the Blister: Carefully use a sterile needle to puncture the blister, then gently press the fluid out.
- Apply an Antibacterial Ointment: Apply an antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, to the area to prevent infection.
- Cover the Blister: Cover the blister with a sterile bandage or adhesive tape to protect it.
- Take Pain Relievers: Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help reduce the pain and swelling.
When to See a Doctor
In some cases, a blister may become infected or cause more serious complications. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor:
- Redness or Swelling: If the area around the blister is red or swollen, it may be a sign of infection.
- Intense Pain: If the blister is painful or does not respond to home treatments, it may be a sign of infection or a more serious problem.
- Fever: A fever can be a sign of infection and should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Drainage: If the blister is draining a yellow or green fluid, it could be a sign of infection and should be evaluated by a doctor.
When to Pop a Blister
If a blister becomes painful or is at risk of being rubbed raw, it can be carefully popped. Here are some tips for popping a blister:
- Clean the Area: Clean the area with soap and water before popping the blister to reduce the risk of infection.
- Sterilize the Needle: Use a sterilized needle or nail clipper to puncture the blister.
- Gently Squeeze: Gently squeeze the blister to release the fluid, then use a cotton swab to clean the area.
- Apply an Antibacterial Ointment: Apply an antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, to the area to prevent infection.
- Cover the Area: Cover the area with an adhesive bandage or tape to protect it.
When to Leave a Blister Alone
In some cases, it may be better to leave a blister alone. If the blister is not painful or at risk of being rubbed raw, it is best to leave it alone. When left alone, a blister will usually heal on its own.
Conclusion
Blisters can be a common issue for athletes, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent and treat them. Make sure to wear shoes that fit properly, use protective gear, and keep your skin dry to reduce the risk of blisters. If a blister does form, it can be safely popped and treated with antibacterial ointment. In some cases, it may be better to leave a blister alone and let it heal on its own.
References
1. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Blisters: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blisters/symptoms-causes/syc-20353711
2. American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Blisters: Treatment. Retrieved from aad.org/public/diseases/skin-conditions/blisters/treatment
3. WebMD. (2020). Blisters: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments. Retrieved from webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/blisters#1