Causes of Friction Blisters on the Feet

Friction blisters on the feet are small pockets of fluid that form when the skin experiences friction, heat, or pressure. They may look like raised, clear or whitish bumps on the surface of the skin and can sometimes develop a red or inflamed border. Blisters often feel tender, sore, or tight, and walking or standing may become uncomfortable. Common causes include wearing poorly fitting shoes, repetitive motion, excessive sweating, or prolonged activities like running or hiking. In some cases, blisters can result from burns, allergic reactions, or underlying medical conditions. A podiatrist can begin by examining the blister, determining the cause, and ensuring there are no signs of infection. Treatment may involve safe drainage techniques, footwear adjustments, and strategies to reduce friction and pressure in the future. Because early care can prevent complications and promote healing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Weight Loss Impacts Foot Structure and Health

Weight loss can have a significant effect on the structure and function of the feet. As body weight decreases, the stress on the arches, joints, and soft tissues of the feet is reduced, which can alleviate pain and improve mobility. Changes in weight can also alter gait and balance, affecting how the feet absorb shock and distribute pressure during walking or exercise. While these changes are often positive, they may also reveal underlying issues such as flat feet, bunions, or joint stiffness that were previously masked by excess weight. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics, and guide exercises to maintain proper alignment. If you have foot discomfort during or after weight loss, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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The Complex Mechanics of the Foot

The foot is a highly intricate structure made up of 26 bones and more than 100 ligaments, muscles, and tendons that work together to support movement and stability. This delicate system allows you to walk, run, and stand with ease, but even small imbalances can lead to significant foot problems. When the foot does not function in proper alignment, issues such as arch pain, heel pain, tendon strain, and joint stress can develop and affect your mobility. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, identify underlying imbalances, and create a personalized treatment plan that may include custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and guidance on proper footwear. Whether you have persistent foot pain or mild discomfort, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips for various foot conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Facts About Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by thickening of the nerve tissue between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. It develops when the nerve is irritated or compressed, leading to burning pain, numbness, or the feeling of a pebble in the shoe. Causes include repeated pressure on the forefoot, tight shoes, and activities that involve high impact. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, bunions, and hammertoes, which can all change how weight is distributed across the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve pressure on the nerve, recommend proper footwear, and provide targeted treatment to reduce symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our doctors of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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