Question
Should I be concerned about a small red blister on my foot from walking in new shoes?
Answer
Yes! You may look at a small blister and think that it is nothing serious, but it can be. If it breaks, this blister in the skin can allow germs into your foot. These germs can cause not only an infection in your foot, but also in the bone. Infections in the bone are very difficult to treat and often are the cause of amputations.
What you should do right now is to wash your feet carefully in gentle soap and water and dry them thoroughly. Then put a small amount of antibiotic ointment on a dressing and cover the wound. Next, call your health care team and let them know that you have a sore on your foot. Your health care team will want to see your foot to decide whether you need to get started on an antibiotic medication.
Finally, quit wearing the shoes that caused the blister. Purchasing a comfortable pair of shoes is one of the best investments you can make. The shoes you wear must fit your feet. Careful attention can prevent future problems.
