Blister prevention and treatment

Hiking does not have to hurt.  Blisters are one of the most common injuries encountered while hiking and they can quickly ruin your trip through pain, infection and a reduced ability to hike.  However, they are relatively easy to prevent and treat.  Prevent blisters by wearing appropriate footwear that fits properly.  New or poorly fitted boots are a common cause of foot pain and blisters.  Be sure to break in new boots and to get refitted for boots if your feet are in a period of growth.  You can also prevent blisters by treating "hot spots" immediately.  You can deal with emerging blisters or hot spots by changing socks (to keep your feet dry), wearing sock liners (to reduce friction) and/or removing your boots as soon as possible (to let your feet cool).  If you do get a blister treat it as soon as possible by cooling, cleaning and properly dressing the wound.  If you take special care to do this properly you will reduce the chance of complications due to pain or infection.  Check out this link to learn more about how to treat blisters.  Remember that your feet are the only parts of you that touch the ground if take care of them you will have a much more enjoyable outing and will be able to hike without foot pain.