If you’re a skier suffering from blisters, you need to know how to protect the blister in your ski boots. It’s important to know how to take care of blisters, and how to prevent them in the future. If the blister has pus, or is very warm and painful, it may be infected, and you should consult a doctor. Most blisters, however, can be treated at home.
- Blisters shouldn’t be popped unless they are very bothersome and interfering with normal activity. If a blister does need to be popped, sterilize a needle or pin by dipping it in boiling water or rubbing alcohol. Then insert the pin into the side of blister, near the normal skin. Don’t squeeze! Just let the fluid come out by itself. Wash area carefully with soap and water, then apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the are with gauze or an appropriately sized bandage before putting on ski boots. In a few days, the dead skin can be cut away with sterile scissors to increase comfort.
- Orthopedic felt can be purchased in some drug stores, online or obtained from some doctors. It comes in different thicknesses and has a sticky back so it can be attached to the skin or the inside of your ski boot. This felt transfers the rubbing pressure away from the blister to non painful areas.
- To prevent blisters in the future, make sure ski boots are well fitting and not too big. Wear good quality socks with no seams. Avoid cotton socks for skiing. Instead, choose socks that are nylon or wool. Some athletic socks have extra padding in areas that are most likely to get blistered.
Protecting blisters while wearing ski boots is important for your comfort and to avoid getting an infection. Keep the area clean and covered while the blister is healing.
