So, I talked a little bit about the new shoes I got, the Merrell Road Glove, and I've worn them every day since I picked them up. Not really for running but more for everyday use because I couldn't stand wearing my traditionally heeled work shoes any longer. I've worn them at work every day, as they fit in alright with our casual-attire environment. I did take them on one longer run though, which resulted in one major thing . . . a MAJOR blister . . . If you are squeamish, don't look at the picture . . . but it's probably too late!
Yeah, this one hurts a bit
So, needless to say, that blister really does hurt. I wanted to take the time to just go over the basics of blister management for all you new runners (and even the vets!), who inevitably will get a blister from time to time.
The Cause
The cause of most blisters is the result of the friction of your skin against another material. In technical terms, it is excess shear stress between skin and body. My blister above was the result of running with new shoes and socks. I don't typically wear socks because I use minimalist shoes, but for whatever brilliant reason, I threw on a pair. Thus, a nice blister to take home to show my wife.
Anyway, a blister is actually your body's way of protecting that region of your body from infection. The blister is filled with sterile  serum that acts almost like an air bag to protect the skin from further irritation.
The Treatment
Dealing with blisters really depends on the severity of the blister, though, for the most part and in general, try not to pop it. The blister and the liquid contained therein help promote healthy regrowth of the skin below. If it does pop, make sure to clean the area and apply a bandage with antibiotic cream to protect yourself from infection. Also, if possible, refraining from the activity that gave you the blister is suggested . . . though that's somewhat annoying for runners.
Really this is just a basic suggestion from my own personal experience. Do you guys have any home remedies that help treat your blisters? If so, I'd love to hear about it.
I think we’ve all been there; hope it heals soon:)
Yeah! I’m just happy that I have my other shoes to fall back onto that don’t happen to irritate that spot so I can keep running.
I probably do the worst thing: pop them so I can keep exercising.
A lot of flats and high heels give blisters, usually around the heels but also on the pinkie toes. I always try to put bandages on them, but they always fall off. I have yet to find a decent bandage that does NOT fall off once it comes into contact with my shoe. I think my frustrations with that have led me to pinprick blisters when they get bad enough to keep me from exercising or wearing the shoes I want.
If there was a better solution, I’d be up for trying it. Just haven’t found one yet!
I wear 3-4 inch heels every day so blisters are a way of life (strangely, running has never caused one for me). I pop them too because it seems to make the whole problem go away faster. Though, they do have blister specific bandaids that actually make the whole process less painful!
You know, I have seen those BandAids but I thought they might be just more expensive BandAids that didn’t improve upon the originals. Now I’m thinking I should give them a second chance! 🙂
I think people are missing the point here… You wear them to work?!? Weirdo…
OK, the nurse in me is cringing with all the reports of blister popping – exactly what you should NOT do because you are opening yourselves up for infections. Try moleskin to protect the blister and your skin.
I was just about to say Moleskin! But Mrs. Bard beat me too it. I love moleskin so very much! I carry a couple pieces in my handbag pretty much all the time, because you never know when you might get a blister! It stays in place and it gives some extra padding 🙂
Also I love the brand Wright Socks. Mike introduced me to them approximately 1 week prior to running the Boston half marathon. They work wonders combined with Body Glide gel on the spots you know are prone to blisters (for me, my pinky toe and 4th toe).
* You can purchase Wright Socks at REI I believe, they’re nothing fancy, but they are great because they are made up of 2 layers, hence reducing the friction on your feet. You can buy Body Glide at any running store typically.