Corns, blisters, abrasions? We have a solution!

Why do my shoes rub?

In many cases, abrasions on the feet are caused by too stiff and incorrectly fitted shoes. First of all, when choosing shoes, make sure that they are flexible enough. They should bend without any major problems when you stand on your toes.

Another cause of rubbing shoes is the wrong size. Both too big and too small shoes can make your life miserable, straining your feet and causing painful blisters. Remember that shoe size may change with age. For this reason, don't insist on wearing the same size for life and check regularly that it still fits.

Certain foot deformities, such as halluxes, may also contribute to chafing of shoes. The pressure exerted on them by shoes that are too narrow may cause painful abrasions.

Fortunately, we know how to fix this! Discover our proven methods that will help you deal with this problem once and for all.

#1 Match your shoe size

When buying shoes, choose a model that fits properly. In other words, the heel should not slide inside the shoe and the toes should not rub against the front of the shoe.

Shoes that are too tight may cause your toes and heels to have too little space. As a result, you can expect painful abrasions and even nail problems. Similarly, shoes that are too loose cause the foot to slide back and forth with each step, causing additional friction and contributing to the formation of blisters.

To prevent this, lace your shoes securely to prevent the heel from shifting. Another proven solution is to wear thicker socks. If you still feel that your feet have too much space, consider replacing your shoes with smaller ones.

#2 Don't wear unworn shoes

Do your new shoes, just taken out of the box, look so phenomenal that you almost immediately want to show them off to the rest of the world? Jiffy! It's a good idea to break in a new pair of shoes before going for a long walk.

Wear them for short distances or wear them around the house while performing everyday duties. This way you can quickly separate them, ensuring a perfect fit.

#3 Replace the insert

If you experience abrasions on your feet, it may be due to the insole being too thick. In this situation, replacing it with a thinner insert will be sufficient. This will give your feet more space and prevent blisters from forming.

In some cases, it may be necessary to purchase a dedicated orthopedic insole that will work well in the case of flat feet or corns.

#4 Avoid pointy toes

Pointed toes look amazing, especially with high-heeled shoes. However, make sure your fingers are not crushed. Otherwise, in addition to abrasions, you may experience bunions or even nerve damage.

To prevent this, you don't have to give up wearing pointy-toed shoes. Wear them on special occasions and choose round-toed shoes for everyday use.

#5 Keep your feet dry

If you have a problem with chafing, the problem may be that your feet sweat excessively. To remove moisture, change your socks regularly and before putting them on, sprinkle your feet with special talcum powder or spray them with a dedicated spray.

Moisture from sweat isn't the only culprit behind calluses and blisters. Wet conditions are equally problematic. Your skin then becomes more susceptible to friction and blistering. When going for a walk through puddles, make sure your shoes don't get wet.

#6 Create a protective layer

Some areas of your foot are prone to blisters, especially when you're wearing new shoes. Before you seal an abrasion after it occurs, act preventively.

A patch applied to a potential blister-prone area will create an additional layer of protection and help prevent a blister from forming. Wearing thicker socks may also be useful.

#7 Replace your shoes

Replacing your shoes is a relatively expensive, but extremely important habit that is worth implementing. Even if your favorite pair of shoes is still in good condition, it's worth considering whether the soles have worn out.

Otherwise, you may experience various pains in your feet, ankles, knee or hip joints, which may result in painful abrasions.

What to do if a blister appears?

If a blister appears, it is a good idea to stop walking. Continuing to move despite severe pain may contribute to uncontrolled bladder rupture or even infection. If the cause of the chafing is rolled socks, remove the shoe as soon as possible, place a plaster on the blister and pull the socks on properly.

Prevention is better than cure

Walking is undoubtedly one of the easiest and most accessible forms of exercise... provided you don't suffer from foot pain that gives you chills and painful blisters with every step you take. 

However, do not replace walking with sitting on the couch watching TV. Just follow our advice and you will be able to easily enjoy the charm of all four seasons. 

If none of the methods discussed helped you fight abrasions, and the pain still persists and interferes with your normal functioning, affecting the quality of your life, be sure to consult a doctor. Perhaps the problem is more complicated and professional help is needed.