Blister Prevention and Care in Soccer
From weekend warrior to professional player almost all soccer players have
experienced blisters at some point in their playing career. The best way to deal with
blisters is preventing them altogether.
When preventing blisters, the first item to consider is the shoe itself. First, each
athlete should have properly fitting shoes. Generally there should be a minimum of ½
inch from the big toe to the end of the shoe, which is usually not a problem for soccer
players who often desire a snug fit, to increase their touch on the ball. Ensuring proper fit
will decrease excess movement of the foot which will create friction. If the shoe is made
from synthetic material there is no way to “break in” the shoe before use. If the shoe is
made from leather there are a few different tricks to help “break in” the shoe before use.
Keep in mind that generally all leather shoes will be more expensive than shoes made of
synthetic material. Regardless of shoe type there are a few things that can be done to
prevent blisters. First you may rub mink oil or other shoe care lotion into your shoes
them wear them for a few days. You may also stuff your shoes with paper overnight once
covered with lotion to stretch them if rubbing occurs.
Blisters will occur in areas of high friction, where the foot and toes will rub on
socks or shoes causing a blister. Each athlete should pay attention to their feet,
specifically where “hot spots” typically occur because every athlete is different. As a
rule of thumb, start with wearing two pair of socks (a thin under layer under a soccer sock
generally works well). If there is still some irritation, using a lubricant such as petroleum
jelly on and around the “hot spots” can decrease friction and blister formation. Lastly,
maintaining calluses is also important in preventing blisters. Calluses should not be
excessive but constant removal of calluses will expose the new skin underneath and
increase the likelihood of a blister forming in that spot.
When a blister does occur follow these few simple steps to allow for the quickest,
pain free resolution of the blister. First, the blister may be drained by a medical
professional. Generally they leave the skin in tact. This can be done by using a sterile
needle or pin and piercing a small hole near the bottom of the blister to allow it to drain.
The blister should then be covered with gauze or a band aid to prevent infection.
Typically, by keeping the blister covered during activity the athlete can prevent increased
friction and irritation to the area. Choose a band aid or tape that will have the least
amount of friction in the shoe to allow for maximum comfort. By visiting a Licensed
Athletic Trainer, the athlete can utilize different types of tape and other products which
will further increase comfort during activity and healing time overall. If blisters are a
reoccurring problem, consider switching shoe brands or consulting with a Licensed
Athletic Trainer who can better assist you in choosing the proper footwear.
Sara Radtke LAT
ATI Physical Therapy Mequon/Port Washington High School
“For a free injury screen or help finding a doctor call me at 262-445-1180”
Troy R. Gauger LAT, CEAS
Licensed Athletic Trainer, Director of Sports Medicine ATI Physical Therapy