$Unique_ID{BRK01135}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, Special Procedures and Laboratory
Tests}
$Title{The Proper Care of Blisters on the Feet}
$Subject{skin blister blisters needle first aid Skin antibiotic antiseptic
ointment ointments cream creams}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Proper Care of Blisters on the Feet


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Can you please help by settling a discussion between two sisters?
It's about the proper care of blisters on the feet.  I still abide by the
precautions my mother taught me, and break the blister with a carefully
sterilized needle, and then put a bandage on.  My sister claims that is old
fashioned and that modern antibiotic ointments are the proper solution.  Which
treatment is the correct one?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Frankly I am not impressed by either method, and certainly vote
against the old sewing needle procedure.  A blister is formed as a natural
protection for the injured tissue beneath and the correct manner of dealing
with these frequent annoyances is to keep it intact, clean and dry.  Removing
the protection of the skin by puncturing the blister is an open invitation to
infection.  Try an ice pack first to reduce any swelling or inflammation, and
then prepare a bandage or dressing with a hole in the middle to preserve the
blister but protect the area against further rubbing or friction.  You may
find ready to use moleskin bandages of this type at your pharmacy.  If the
blister does break open, wash the area carefully with soap and water, dry
completely, and then you may apply an ointment or cream containing an
antibiotic or antiseptic, keeping the broken skin in place as it is the best
covering of all.  A sterile bandage to cover the sore area completes the
treatment.  Of course you must now check your shoes to find the cause of the
blister, and remedy that situation or face the possibility of more blisters
the next time out.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.