Yes, blister prevention myths abound!
“… many myths continue to be propagated regarding the prevention and treatment of friction blisters” Douglas Richie DPM (2010)
MYTH 1 Blisters are a burn
The reality is …
- Friction blisters do not resemble thermal burns either clinically or histologically
- Experimental blister studies show only moderate increases in skin temperature to between 41-50 ºC (insufficient to cause a burn).
MYTH 2 Friction is rubbing
The reality is … (Friction is misunderstood)
Friction is the force that resists rubbing As the bone moves one way, the force of friction opposes this to keep the surface of the skin stationary. The result is all the soft tissue in between stretches. This is shear and this is what causes blisters. You don’t need rubbing to form blisters! Rubbing adds an abrasion injury (deroofed blister).
- Blister Cause = Shear
- Deroofed Blister Cause = Rubbing
MYTH 3 Wearing cotton socks will stop blisters
The reality is … (This is the worst thing you can do!)
- Cotton is a hydrophilic (water-attracting) fibre
- It keeps moisture trapped near the skin
- Moisture increases friction levels
- So cotton increases blister incidence
MYTH 4 Powders stop friction
The reality is … (This won’t work for long)
- Feet perspire a lot (especially when you exercise)
- Powder absorbs as much perspiration as it can
- Then it clumps together and increases friction levels
MYTH 5 Lubricants are the best way to stop friction
The reality is … (This one is a semi-myth)
- Initially friction reduces
- Then friction increases
MYTH 6 Heat, moisture and friction cause blisters
The reality is … (This is an over-simplification)
There are 4 factors required to produce blisters:
- Thick and immobile skin
- High coefficient of friction (friction & pressure)
- Moving bone
- Repetition
It gets hot in your shoe which causes your feet to sweat. This moisture increases friction levels. But this is just one part of blister formation.
MYTH 7 Blisters are a part of sport – wear them with pride!
The reality is … (Blisters are not inevitable!)
Blisters are not inevitable! Get the facts.
Advanced Blister Kit
Advanced Blister Kit allows you to pack light while providing medical-grade blister protection. Give your blisters advanced first aid.
About The Author
Rebecca Rushton BSc(Pod)
Podiatrist, blister prone ex-hockey player, foot blister thought-leader, author and educator. Can’t cook. Loves test cricket.
Advanced Blister Kit
Advanced Blister Kit allows you to pack light while providing medical-grade blister protection. Give your blisters advanced first aid.
You are a great resource for those wanting to resolve their blister problems. I hope people will take the information to heart.
Together we are shining a light on this under-rated injury John. You’ve advanced the care of blisters in athletes more than anyone else on the planet. Keep up the great work! All the best this weekend with the Western States 100.