Kim Nankivell B.Pod
Kirsty Stupel B.Pod
Nikki Smart B.Pod
Winston Luu B.Pod
Jared Vause B.Pod
Bryce Strachan B.Sc, B.Pod, Grad Dip Pod
Wendy Thompson Dip App Sc (Pod)
Mhairi Smith BSc (Hons) Podiatry
Claire Easterbrook B.Pod
Laura Hutchison B.Pod (Hons)
BASKETBALL
How to beat blisters
The physical demands of basketball often predispose us to many injuries.
However, one that is frequently overlooked is blisters which can become
a frustrating aspect of playing basketball. Blisters are caused by friction
between the foot and the shoe and are common in basketball because of
the constant running, jumping and quick cutting movements. Blisters can
appear as a swollen area of skin that contains watery fluid.
tips to prevent
To prevent blisters myPod Podiatry can provide helpful tips on skin
preparation, footwear, orthotics and socks.’
One of the most common causes of blisters is incorrectly fitting shoes.
Shoes should be fitted to the length and width of your foot. You should
have about a thumb-width of room between your longest toe (not always
the big toe!) and the end of the shoe. Be aware of any internal seams on
the shoe that have the potential to rub. Shoes should be laced up so your
foot does not do any excessive movements inside the shoe. If you are
concerned about the right shoe for you the Podiatrists at myPod Podiatry
are happy to check them for you. Please discuss with your retailer whether
they will accept shoe returns if returned in original condition.
Blisters are more likely to occur in those who sweat a lot during a game.
Moist skin increases frictional forces, leading to blister formation, while
very dry or very wet skin decreases frictional forces, preventing blisters.
At myPod Podiatry we can advise on lubricants or drying agents to apply
to the skin before applying socks to decrease friction reducing blister
formation. Proper socks
can decrease friction and prevent blister formation. Socks made from
polypropylene or other new synthetic materials can wick moisture away
from the skin more effectively than wool or cotton. Layering socks, special
blister free socks or special double-layered socks can further minimise
shearing forces. Socks with large toe seams should be worn inside out to
help prevent blisters on the tops of toes.Make sure that socks fit snugly with
no wrinkles. If necessary bring a spare pair of socks to the game to change
into during a break if they become too wet.
Taping of blister-prone areas can also be helpful to ensure that any
friction occurs between the shoe and the tape, not the shoe and your
foot! Footwear insoles (or sock liners) could cause problems if they have
worn out or flattened down. Orthotics can keep friction to a minimum by
reducing shearing force on the soles of the feet.
tips to treat
Once you do have a blister it is important to properly care for it to avoid
infection. Try to resist the urge to pop blisters as this allows a portal of entry
for infection to occur. If however the blister does burst apply an antiseptic
and a non-stick dressing to minimise changes of infection. If you feel it
necessary to open the blister make sure that it is done at the bottom of the
blister to allow gravity to drain the fluid inside.
For blisters or any other foot problems you may be experiencing, please
contact the staff at myPod Podiatry on (08) 8357 4988, or go to our website
www.mypodpodiatry.com.au and use our online enquiry form.
Adelaide
SA Sports Medicine Centre
Tel: (08) 8211 8002
Pirie Street
115 Pirie Street
Tel: (08) 7221 9110
Port Elliot
39 North Terrace
Tel: (08) 8554 2530
Naracoorte
162 Smith Street
Tel: (08) 8762 0601
Marion
724 Marion Road
Tel: (08) 8357 4988
Flagstaff Hill
1 Ridgway Drive
Tel: (08) 8270 1194
Mount Gambier
123 Commercial St West
Tel: (08) 8724 7777
Portland
3 Henty Street
Tel: (03) 5523 2005
Ocean Grove
Bellarine Allied Health Group
Tel: (03) 5256 3642
Also consulting at Keith • Bordertown • Lucindale • Kingston • Penola • Robe • Beachport • Millicent • Edenhope • Casterton • Hamilton • Coleraine
www.mypodpodiatry.com.au