Foot health is often an overlooked aspect of our daily well-being. We rely on our feet every day, whether we’re walking to work, going for a run, or standing on hard surfaces for hours. Yet, it’s not uncommon for people to neglect proper foot care until they experience pain or discomfort. Dr. Miguel Cunha, founder of Gotham Footcare in Manhattan, specializes in treating a variety of foot conditions, and through his expertise, he offers valuable insights on how to prevent common foot ailments, especially blisters, and maintain overall foot health.
In this blog, we’ll share some of the advice Dr. Cunha has given during a recent interview, focusing on blister prevention, foot care tips, and the importance of maintaining foot health through the right footwear and practices.
Dr. Miguel Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon with years of experience treating foot conditions ranging from minor ailments to complex surgical corrections. As the founder of Gotham Footcare with two locations in Manhattan, Dr. Cunha is dedicated to providing personalized and effective treatments to help patients live without foot pain. His expertise covers everything from sports-related injuries to bunions and hammertoe corrections. With his in-depth knowledge of foot mechanics and health, Dr. Cunha emphasizes the importance of preventive care for foot health.
Blisters can be incredibly painful, and for athletes, runners, or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet, they can interfere with daily life. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent blisters before they start.
According to Dr. Cunha, poorly fitted shoes are the most common cause of blisters. “Always buy shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen,” he advises. This ensures that your shoes will fit comfortably throughout the day. Use a Brannock device to measure both the length and width of your feet to ensure you’re buying the correct size.
Additionally, Dr. Cunha recommends trying on at least three different shoe models and wearing one model on each foot at the same time to compare. “Make sure the tip of your thumb fits between the end of the shoe and the end of your longest toe. There should also be enough room to slightly wiggle your toes,” he adds. Tight shoes can lead to pain and blisters, so make sure the shoes are comfortable before leaving the store—not after wearing them for a while.
“Socks play an important role in preventing blisters,” says Dr. Cunha. Cotton socks should be avoided because they retain moisture, which can leave the skin prone to breaking and blistering due to friction. Instead, choose synthetic socks made of acrylic or polypropylene, which wick away moisture more effectively. Double layering your socks can also reduce friction and help prevent blisters.
Applying lubricants to pressure areas can minimize friction and help prevent blisters. Dr. Cunha recommends products such as petroleum jelly or specialty products like Sport Shield, Sports Slick, Run Goo, or Body Glide, which are available at specialty running stores. “Friction creates heat and shearing forces, which break down the skin leading to blisters. If you minimize friction, you minimize blisters,” he explains.
Keeping your feet dry is key to blister prevention. “Use baby powder, talcum powder, or antiperspirant to help keep your feet dry,” Dr. Cunha suggests. Excess moisture softens the skin, making it more prone to breaking under friction. Keeping your feet dry also reduces the risk of developing fungal infections, like athlete’s foot, which can exacerbate blister problems.
Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance. Dehydration can increase the risk of blister formation, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, especially if you’re engaged in physical activity.
If you know you have hotspots that are prone to blistering, take precautions by covering them. “There are several options including sports tape, moleskin, gel bandages, and blister band-aids like HYDRO Seal,” Dr. Cunha recommends. These products can reduce friction and protect sensitive areas from blistering.
Epsom salts contain magnesium, which can reduce swelling and pain associated with blisters. “Soaking your feet in Epsom salt can help dry out blisters, reduce inflammation, and expedite the healing process,” Dr. Cunha explains. This simple remedy can make a significant difference in the healing time of blisters.
Dr. Cunha recommends a few key products to help prevent and treat blisters effectively:
Whether you’re a runner, athlete, or someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, there are best practices to follow to protect against blisters and maintain overall foot health. In addition to choosing the right shoes and socks, follow these guidelines:
One of the most common mistakes people make is neglecting their foot health. “Feet are the most neglected part of our bodies, but we rely on them every day,” says Dr. Cunha. People often ignore foot issues until they become severe, which can lead to more serious problems. Walking barefoot can expose your feet to infections like athlete’s foot or plantar warts, while wearing the wrong shoes can cause long-term damage to your feet, knees, and posture.
“Spend money on the right shoe,” Dr. Cunha emphasizes. Shoes that are too tight, worn out, or poorly made can lead to blisters, pain, and conditions like plantar fasciitis. Taking care of your feet can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.
Preventing blisters and maintaining proper foot health requires the right combination of footwear, socks, and habits. As Dr. Cunha suggests, investing in properly fitted shoes, keeping your feet dry, and using lubricants or protective coverings can go a long way in avoiding painful blisters. Whether you’re an athlete, runner, or just someone looking to keep your feet healthy, these best practices can help you protect your feet and prevent unnecessary discomfort.
For more information on foot care or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cunha, visit Gotham Footcare. Dr. Cunha and his team offer expert care to help you maintain optimal foot health.
About Gotham Footcare: Dr. Miguel Cunha is a renowned foot and ankle surgeon based in Manhattan. He specializes in treating a wide range of foot conditions, including bunions, hammertoes, sports injuries, and more. Gotham Footcare offers advanced podiatric care tailored to each patient’s needs.
At Gotham Footcare in NYC, we strive at recognizing your individual needs and desired outcomes while formulating an effective and personalized treatment plan with the highest quality care available.
What sets Gotham Footcare apart from other podiatry offices is our dedication to providing you with the education you need to make well-informed decisions regarding your care. Regardless of what your foot and ankle trouble may be, at Gotham Footcare our team will work tirelessly to help you feel better. At Gotham Footcare, we help you put your best foot forward.
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