The Musculoskeletal System
Lesson 2: Diseases and Disorders of the Feet
Section IV: Arthritis of the Feet
2-21
2-21. VESICLES AND BULLAS (BLISTERS)
Vesicles and bullas are closed, circumscribed, elevated lesions that contain fluid (serous fluid). A vesicle is a blister that is one centimeter or less in size while a bulla is a blister that is larger than one centimeter. Friction between a shoe or boot and the skin causes a blister to form. The size of the blister depends on how much friction is placed against the foot. Blisters usually develop on the ball of the foot, the back of the heel, or the tops of the toes. A blister is really a protective device. The formation of a blister tells the person that footwear is rubbing too much against a particular part of the foot.
a. Signs/Symptoms of Vesicles/ Bullas. Included are the following:
(1) Pain.
(2) Redness.
(3) Swelling.
(4) Infection if lesions have broken.
b. Treatment of Vesicles/Bullas. Treat as follows:
(1) Do not open lesions.
(2) Apply moleskin.
(3) Use open air treatment.
(4) Change socks frequently.
(5) Apply topical antimicrobial medications if the blister is open.
(6) Use the two-sock method of prevention of such lesions.
c. Prevention of Vesicles/Bullas. Blisters can be prevented. The key to success is to be sure that you find shoes that fit your feet properly. Next, wear socks that fit well and practice the two-sock method of keeping the feet dry. Socks will prevent friction between the skin and shoes, especially when a person is walking or jogging.
