Blisters on the sole of the foot are common for those who enjoy outdoor activities or those who wear uncomfortable shoes. Excess sweat can cause skin to become irritated, which can lead to the formation of blisters. Most small blisters heal within days while larger blisters can take up to a week to heal. If an infection occurs, consult your physician immediately.
Home Remedies for Foot Blisters
Most foot blisters found on the sole of the foot occur after wearing tight shoes or after strenuous sports activities or hiking. Caring for small blisters as soon as possible is the best way to prevent infection. Soak feet in warm water. Add Epsom salt, if desired, to sooth aching feet and relax foot muscles. Epsom salt can relieve any itchiness caused by the blister. Dry feet with a soft cloth. Soak blistered feet in warm water each day until blisters heal.
Leave blisters uncovered after soaking. Avoid walking on the blister for as long as possible as air helps blisters to heal. Place a plastic bandage on the blister before putting on shoes. Wear moisture-resistant socks to prevent excess moisture from touching the blister while it heals.
Apply moleskin coverings to blisters on the balls or heels of feet to decrease pressure on blisters when walking.
Drain Large Blisters
Drain large blisters on the sole of the foot using a needle. Wipe needle with rubbing alcohol or wash using warm water and soap before puncturing the blister. Gently push on large blisters using the needle. Try to create two small holes around the edges of the blister cap (top of the blister). Lightly push the blister with your fingers to expel fluids. Do not remove the cap. Apply an antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Remove the bandage often, so air can help heal the blister. The cap will harden on its own over time. After the blister has healed, you can remove the cap by gently scraping it or allow it to fall off on its own.
Blister Medications
Antibiotic ointments such as polymyxin B or bacitracin are available at your local drug store and can speed up the healing process when you have a blister. Apply ointment after cleaning the blister and surrounding areas. Cover with a bandage when wearing socks and shoes.
If the blister does not heal within a week or if the pain increases, consult a physician. Additional medication may be prescribed if an infection occurs. Signs of infection include redness, pus released after puncturing, excessive itchiness or pain spreading to other areas of the foot.
Blisters caused by bacterial or fungal infection (athlete's foot) may require oral medication to help fight infection.
Tags: blisters heal, sole foot, warm water, Epsom salt, feet warm