Blisters

Common causes of blisters include friction and burns. If the blister isn't too painful, do everything possible to keep it intact. Unbroken skin over a blister provides a natural barrier to bacteria and decreases the risk of infection. Cover the blister with a small adhesive bandage to protect it.

If the blister is painful, drain the fluid while leaving the overlying skin intact. Here's how:

-Wash your hands and the blister with warm water and soap.

-Swab the blister with rubbing alcohol.

-Sterilize a clean, sharp needle by wiping it with rubbing alcohol.

-Use the needle to puncture the blister. Aim for several spots near the blister's edge. Let the fluid drain, but leave the overlying skin in place.

-Apply an antibiotic ointment to the blister and cover with a bandage.

-Use tweezers and scissors sterilized with rubbing alcohol to cut away all the dead skin after several days. Apply more ointment.

-Call your doctor if you see signs of infection around a blister — pus, redness, increasing pain or warm skin.

To prevent a blister, use gloves, socks, a bandage or similar protective covering over the area being rubbed. Special athletic socks that have extra padding in critical areas are available. You might also try attaching moleskin to the inside of your shoes where it might rub, such as your heels.

Remember the following when you shop for shoes:

-Shop during the middle of the day. Your feet swell throughout the day, so a midday fitting will probably give you the best fit.

-Measure your feet. Shoe sizes change throughout adulthood.

-Measure both feet and try on both shoes. If your feet differ in size, buy the larger size.

-Go for flexible but supportive shoes with cushioned insoles.

-Be sure that you can comfortably wiggle your toes.