This may sound like a trivial thing, but I am in pain, so am seeking advice. I work out on my treadmill about twice a week, and walk outside most other days, taking an occasional day off. When the weather gets bad, I will rely solely on my treadmill for my cardio workout. Anyway, this is nothing new, I have been working out since early Feb. But, somehow in the past couple of weeks, I have developed a painful blister on the side of my big toe on my left foot. I have not changed shoes ( I wear a pair of Mizunos that I absolutely love!), and I am wearing the same socks I always wear. I have not changed my stride, or anything that I can think of. The blister itself is a brownish red color...like it is filled with bloody fluid or something.

My questions...why do you think I am now having this problem, and what can I do to help or resolve it? I am so tempted to pop it with a needle and drain it, but scared it will just make things worse. Any remedies or recommendations are appreciated...this is starting to compromise my workouts!
Thanks!
Di

Hmmmm ... a few thoughts:

Shoes do wear out over time - and the way they fit will shift as the inners of the sole become compressed. How long have you had the shoes and is it possible that it's time for new ones? (btw, I love my mizunos too! I'll cry when I have to get new ones)

When I was fitted for my first real pair of running shoes, I was told that people walk/run differently outside than they do on a treadmill. Do you think that might be affecting your stride?

Are you running any more than you used to? Could it just be additional friction?

Other than that, it sounds like a pinching type blood-blister to me. I wouldn't lance it because it might get infected and the continued friction will probably cause the skin to peel and tear if you do. I'd pick up some moleskin at your local drugstore and start putting that inside your sock over the affected area.

Other than those thoughts above ... I'm not sure what else it might be.

THanks for replying, Kara.
I have had my mizunos since about April...but I have put quite a few miles on them since then. My son says that his cross country coach would probably say they are worn out...but I hate to part with them yet...and can't really afford new mizunos right now.

I have upped my jogging minutes while on the treadmill...but am only working out on it two days a week. I guess the increase could have caused the blister. When I walk outside, it's a brisk walk, but no jogging...so less intensity. My stride probably is different, especially since I walk on a country/gravel road.

I will pick up some moleskin and try that...thanks again for responding to my little complaint!
Di

No problem. I hope the moleskin helps. I used to hike a lot and always carried some in my pack. It's amazing stuff.

I decided to go hit some biking trails with hubby tomorrow, instead of walking...give my foot a little break. There are a couple of nice trails about 45 minutes away from home. We load up the backs on the rack and take off nice and early before the heat of the day. On the way back, I will hit the drugstore for some moleskin.

Duct tape is cheaper than mole skin and stays in place better. That's what my buddy in the marines uses and it's what I use. I've never had a problem with it. It has gotten me through seasons after seasons of snowboarding. I'm sure many of you will shake your fingers at me, but remember; If you can't duct it, ---- it.

I always lance mine, I wash the affected are thoroughly with soap and warm water before cleansing it with alcohol or hydro peroxide followed by a topical antibiotic and a good bandaid (let it breath when you are at home)... then wrap the whole thing in duct tape before heading out. (change daily)

Probably not a method for everyone, but it's tried and true.

OK - I'll admit it. I know it isnt the right thing to do - but I always take a needle to my blisters. Then I pad with one or two layers of cotton wool pads and hold in place by strips of elastoplast (cut to size).

Ok, those of you that drain your blisters...do they reform and fill back up with fluid after you lance them? Also, have you ever had problems with infection? I think I am too chicken to try this...
Di

Use duct tape!!!!!

I've never had any problems with infection - but I try to keep things clean (clean needle and keep it covered). If any have filled again I have just taken the needle again...

I was walking a minimum of 11 miles a day during the main of the weight loss phase of my project and couldnt face my daily walking with a blister that had not been burst. They hurt too much. I am just walking a minimum of 6.5 miles now...

As I said - I know that you shouldnt - but I do burst them...

I have to say that mine always seem to fill with clear liquid though....

Mine refill every once in a while, if that happens I just pop it again. I've never had a problem with an infection. Keep it clean just like you would for any other part of your body and you will be fine.
I can't really feel them after I pop them and cover them. But if I try to cover them up without popping them they are still relatively painful, I think.