Blister Treatment at Foot Foundation

Blisters may appear minor, but when painful, recurrent, or infected, they can interfere with walking, sport, and everyday comfort. Often caused by friction, pressure, or poorly fitted footwear, blisters are especially common in athletes, workers, and people on their feet for long periods.

At Foot Foundation, we provide expert blister treatment and prevention. Our podiatrists offer sterile drainage, protective dressings, footwear guidance, and custom orthotics to speed recovery and reduce recurrence.

What are Blisters?

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form under the skin as a result of friction, pressure, burns, or trauma. They act as a protective cushion, but when painful, recurrent, or infected, they require professional care.

On the feet, blisters most commonly occur on the heels, toes, or soles, particularly in people who are active, wear poorly fitted shoes, or have biomechanical issues that increase pressure points.

At Foot Foundation, we provide specialist blister care, from safe drainage and dressing to long-term prevention strategies for athletes, workers, and everyday patients.

Causes & Risk Factors

Friction & rubbing – from shoes, socks, or skin-on-skin contact
Poor footwear – tight, loose, or unsupportive shoes
Sweating & moisture – softening skin and increasing blister risk
Repetitive activity – running, hiking, netball, football, long walks
Occupational risk – prolonged standing or manual labour
Biomechanical stress – high arches, flat feet, or abnormal gait patterns
Burns or frostbite – less common causes, but still relevant
Medical conditions – diabetes or circulation problems increasing risk of complications

Treatment at Foot Foundation

Safe drainage (if required) – sterile technique to relieve pressure
Dressing & padding – protecting blister site with hydrocolloid dressings or felt padding
Footwear advice – properly fitted shoes with reduced friction
Custom orthotics – redistribute pressure and reduce recurrent blistering
Moisture control – breathable socks, foot powders, and antiperspirant sprays
Infection management – antibacterial dressings or GP referral if infection present
Education – prevention strategies for athletes and workers

Symptoms

Fluid-filled bubble on the skin surface (clear, blood-filled, or pus-filled if infected)
Localised pain or burning sensation before blister develops
Redness and swelling in surrounding skin
Difficulty wearing shoes or walking due to pressure
Risk of infection if blister bursts or is improperly drained

Diagnosis

At Foot Foundation, diagnosis includes:

Clinical assessment – type, location, and cause of blister
Footwear & activity review – identifying friction or pressure sources
Biomechanical analysis – gait assessment for recurrent blistering
Infection check – redness, heat, or pus indicating bacterial involvement

Blisters – FAQs

What causes blisters on feet?

Blisters are caused by friction, pressure, moisture, or trauma, often from poorly fitting footwear or repetitive activity.

Should I pop a blister?

No. Popping a blister at home increases infection risk. A podiatrist can safely drain it under sterile conditions if necessary.

What’s the difference between a blood blister and a normal blister?

A blood blister forms when deeper tissue and blood vessels are damaged. It looks red or dark but is managed similarly to clear blisters.

Are blisters dangerous?

Most blisters are minor, but if they become infected, very painful, or occur in diabetics, they can be serious.

How can I prevent blisters?

Prevention includes well-fitted footwear, moisture-wicking socks, protective padding, and orthotics for biomechanical issues.

Do athletes get more blisters?

Yes. Runners, footballers, netballers, and hikers are especially prone due to repetitive foot friction.

How long do blisters take to heal?

Most heal within 7–10 days if left intact and protected.

Can orthotics help with blisters?

Yes. Orthotics help redistribute pressure and reduce rubbing in areas prone to recurrent blisters.

What shoes are best to prevent blisters?

Shoes with a good fit, supportive structure, and breathable material are best. Avoid loose, narrow, or rigid shoes.

When should I see a podiatrist?

If blisters are recurrent, painful, infected, or linked to diabetes or circulation issues, podiatry treatment is essential.

Why Choose Foot Foundation?

Foot Foundation provides specialist blister care and prevention, from safe drainage and dressings to long-term solutions such as orthotics and footwear modification. Our podiatrists help patients stay active and pain-free, whether for sport, work, or daily life.

With clinics in Rosedale, Takapuna, Remuera, Botany, Hamilton, and Tauranga, expert blister treatment is available across New Zealand.