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Theres no way to sugarcoat it: Runners feet take abeating.
Petko Ninov / Getty Images
And heres another one to add to the list: the blister.
Heres what you oughta know.
Why does running cause blisters, anyway?
What should you do when you get a blister?
Which then leads to one of the biggest questions with blisters: to pop or not to pop?
Unfortunately, theres no clear-cut answer, says Dr. Ecklesthere are experts on both sides of the issue.
Dr. Smithan advocate ofnotpoppingrecommends simply applying an extra layer to protect it and prevent painful friction when you run.
Replace this frequently to wash the skin and reduce your chance of infection, he says.
Same if the blister looks infected.)
If all that sounds gross/like a hassle, heres how to prevent them in the first place.
These 10 tips to keep blisters at bay can get you started.
A material that wicks sweat from the skin through the sock is best.
This includes materials or blends of materials like merino wool, polyester, nylon, spandex, and Teflon.
That moisture, of course, can lead to the friction that can trigger a blister.
Tight shoes can increase your chances of blisters because they impart more pressure and friction on your feet.
And even shoes that didnt feel tight when youre lacing up can start to feel snug while youre running.
Thats whyfinding the right fit for your running shoesis vital.
See if under low-stress, low-pressure situationswalking around the housethere are any areas rubbing.
If there are, this will be exacerbated with running.
So keep them pared down with a pumice stone or callus file.
If youre into pedicures, ask your pedicurist to leave them intact.
But if they do mess with them, you could play damage control.
Try foam or gel inserts instead.
This often means skipping a lace-set or two.
(Find out how to do ithere.)
(Feels too tight or uncomfortable?
Being proactive in the momentand maybe even hitting the pause button on your runcan pay off big later.
When you feel rubbing during a run, stop and adjust wherever youre feeling friction, says Dr. And play the preventive game too.
Cant fit in all in your running pack?
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See more from SELFs Guide to Running package here.
