Blisters on the feet develop when fluid collects beneath the outer layer of skin, forming a raised pocket that protects the tissue underneath. One of the most frequent causes is friction, which occurs when the skin repeatedly rubs against another surface. Tight shoes or footwear that does not fit properly may create enough pressure to cause a blister. These fluid-filled areas often appear on the heels, toes, or soles of the feet. Blisters on the feet may also develop from burns, exposure to extreme cold, or contact with irritating substances. Although many blisters heal without complications, larger or painful blisters may interfere with walking and everyday activities.

Foot blisters vary in size and appearance depending on their cause. Most contain clear fluid, although some may contain blood or pus. The surrounding skin may become tender, red, or irritated. Friction blisters often develop after repeated rubbing against the same area, particularly during activities involving extended walking or standing. When a blister breaks open, the exposed skin becomes more vulnerable to infection. Warning signs include increasing pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area. Pus draining from the blister may also indicate an infection. While minor blisters generally heal within one to two weeks, persistent irritation or infection may delay recovery and require professional attention.

A podiatrist examines foot blisters to determine their cause and assess the condition of the surrounding skin. Treatment focuses on protecting the affected area, relieving discomfort, and reducing the risk of infection. In certain cases, a podiatrist may professionally drain a large or painful blister using sterile equipment. Protective dressings may also be recommended to support healing and prevent additional irritation. Addressing repeated friction is important for individuals who frequently develop blisters. Popping a blister yourself is not recommended as it may lead to infection. If you are experiencing painful foot blisters or signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. The fungus grows especially well in warm, moist environments and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. It frequently begins between the toes, where moisture can collect. The infection can also affect the soles or sides of the feet. Symptoms can include itching, burning, and redness. The skin can also become scaly, cracked, or irritated. Some patients develop small blisters or areas of peeling skin. Athlete's foot can spread from one area of the foot to another and can sometimes affect the toenails. People who frequently have damp or sweaty feet can have a greater chance of developing the infection.

A podiatrist can evaluate athlete's foot by examining the affected skin and determining whether the symptoms are consistent with a fungal infection. An examination can also help distinguish athlete's foot from other skin problems that can cause itching or scaling. A podiatrist can recommend antifungal treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Prescription-strength topical medication can be applied directly to affected skin. In some cases, oral antifungal medication can be prescribed when the infection is widespread or difficult to treat. A podiatrist can also evaluate the toenails when signs of a fungal nail infection are present.

Untreated athlete's foot can become increasingly uncomfortable and can spread to other areas. Cracked skin can become painful, especially between the toes or on areas that experience pressure. A podiatrist can monitor the infection and adjust treatment according to how the skin responds. Care can also focus on reducing repeated fungal infections by identifying factors that contribute to excess moisture around the feet. Patients with recurring symptoms can benefit from an evaluation of their skin and toenails to determine whether fungal infection remains present. Prompt treatment can help control the infection and improve the condition of affected skin. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet and overpronation are both similar and different. Flat feet are about what your foot looks like at rest, while overpronation is about how your foot behaves in motion. Although they may look the same, they function differently. Flat feet occur when the sole contacts the ground when you stand. Overpronation happens when the feet roll inward too much while standing or walking. This may cause pain, fatigue, or heaviness in the feet. Symptoms may become noticeable after long periods of standing, walking, or exercise. 

Flat feet can develop naturally during childhood or result from changes in the bones, muscles, or ligaments. Aging, injury, and certain health conditions may increase risk. Wearing unsupportive shoes may contribute to discomfort when the feet lack support. Overpronation can place additional stress on the arches and ankles. Common symptoms include aching arches, tired feet, and discomfort during activity. Some people may also notice uneven shoe wear or difficulty standing for extended periods of time.

A podiatrist can determine whether flat feet or overpronation are contributing to symptoms. The evaluation may include examining foot alignment, checking the arches while standing, and observing walking patterns. The podiatrist may assess joint movement and muscle strength, as well. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Recommendations may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or other conservative care. If structural problems are significant, the podiatrist can discuss additional treatment options based on your needs.

You do not always need treatment simply because you have flat feet. However, persistent pain or fatigue deserves attention when symptoms interfere with normal activities. Early evaluation can identify contributing factors and help protect comfortable movement. Supportive shoes and appropriate foot care may reduce strain during daily activities. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters between the toes are small, fluid-filled areas that develop when skin becomes irritated or damaged. They can be uncomfortable and may make walking difficult, especially when footwear presses against the affected area. Friction is one of the most common causes. Wearing tight shoes, damp socks, and repeated rubbing can create enough irritation to form a blister. However, not every blister between the toes comes from friction. Common skin conditions, including athlete's foot and eczema, can also cause irritation, peeling, or small fluid-filled bumps.

Symptoms can vary depending on the cause. A friction blister may appear as a raised area filled with clear fluid and may feel tender when touched. Skin affected by athlete's foot can become itchy, red, peeling, or cracked. Risk factors include wearing poorly fitting shoes, excessive foot sweating, and spending long periods of time walking or standing. People who frequently participate in sports may also experience repeated friction that increases the chance of developing blisters.

A podiatrist can determine why blisters are developing by examining the skin and reviewing your symptoms. If a fungal infection or another skin condition is suspected, additional testing may help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. A podiatrist may protect the area from further friction, recommend appropriate wound care, or prescribe medication when an infection or skin condition is involved. If a blister is large or painful, professional drainage may sometimes be considered. The area should be monitored for signs of infection during healing.

Blisters between the toes should not be ignored, especially when they return or become painful. Keeping feet dry and choosing properly fitted footwear can help reduce irritation. However, recurring blisters may signal an underlying condition that requires professional attention. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and support healthier skin. If you have blisters between the toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention solutions.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.