To prevent blisters, minimize friction to your skin. Wear shoes that fit properly. If you have peripheral neuropathy that causes tingling or loss of feeling in your feet, be certain that your podiatrist evaluates your shoe wear to be certain of its fit. Be certain that the shoes you wear are appropriate for your level of activity. Also, evaluate your sock selection. Layering socks can minimize friction, however, you need to make sure that there are no wrinkles or creases in the layers, or you risk forming a blister on the sole of your foot. Change your socks frequently if your feet sweat a lot.
Another way of preventing friction is to use products that dry the feet, such as baby powder, before applying socks. A thin layer of petroleum jelly may also help reduce friction. Be sure to apply petroleum jelly sparingly, and avoid applying between the toes. To prevent blisters on the palms, use gloves to decrease friction, and be sure to keep hands dry.
Blisters can be painful. Proper treatment of blisters involves minimizing pain, maximizing comfort and preventing infection or contamination, if possible.
Small blisters that are intact (meaning that the bubble covering has not been broken) should remain intact. Do not break the blister—the bubble covering is the body’s way of preventing infection and allowing the skin to heal. If the skin is broken, or not intact, wash the blister gently with warm water and mild soap.
It is important that patients with diabetes are vigilant in examining their feet carefully, every day. Report any cracks or blisters to the podiatrist, and allow him to determine the treatment and dress the blister.
