How To Manage Interdigital Blisters

Blisters between the toes


Pinch blisters between toes (Image credit)

Pinch blisters between toes (Image credit)



The bony anatomy of the toes



Phalanges - toe bone anatomy






How To Stop Blisters Between Toes

1. Foam or gel wedges

silicone (gel) interdigital wedges for blisters between toes


2. Silicone gel toe sleeve

Gel toe sleeves for blisters between toes

These are like a little sock for an individual toe and come either open or closed at one end. The best ones have gel all around thereby providing 360 degree toe protection. Compared to the wedges above, they are more likely to stay in place because they are elasticised. The silicone gel material is the same so they still absorb a lot of blister-causing shear (in fact, silicone gel absorbs too much shear for the main weightbearing parts of the foot, but for toes they are perfect). They can be helpful for pinch blisters as the elasticity encapsulates and holds the soft tissue component of the toe together so it’s not getting "trodden on" as much with each step. But they will get sweaty and degrade over time, just like the wedges. Applying talcum powder to silicone devices after washing and drying will improve longevity. I highly recommend trying these for toe blisters and interdigital blisters.

3. Otoform K wedge

Otoform K wedges for interdigital blisters


4. Taping

Toe taping for blisters between toes


5. Lubricants

Lubricants reduce friction. However, research shows that there is a delayed increase in friction above baseline measures So reapplication is required or not only is your blister protection gone, you're actually more likely to get blisters. And lubricants are occlusive and lock sweat within the skin and increase maceration, a common issue between the toes anyway. On the upside, if used only between the toes, at least the initial lack of traction will be a minor issue at this anatomical location. Read this article for more on how lubricants work.

6. Toe-socks

Managing interdigital blisters with toe-socks


7. Low friction tape on toesocks


Applying an ENGO Patch to toesocks will reduce friction a lot more than the toesocks alone. You'll only need it on one interdigital surface. Remember that foot volume increases the more you are on your feet and active - so don't apply any compression around the toe! Just lay it on and press to adhere. I know of athletes that use duct tape for this application, which may suffice considering any tape will come off when you wash the sock.



Connect with Rebecca on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.



Related Article

Blisters under the ball of your foot?

Toenail blisters

Heel Blisters