What causes blisters on the feet that hurt when walking, and what should be done about it?

In general, blisters on the feet that cause pain while walking are usually caused by factors such as friction irritation, corns, eczema, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), or herpes zoster. Patients should address the condition according to the specific underlying cause. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Friction Irritation

This is commonly related to ill-fitting shoes or socks and excessive walking, which may lead to excessive friction on the skin of the feet. This can damage the local skin, resulting in blisters accompanied by pain, with symptoms worsening during walking. In such cases, proper local care and adequate rest are recommended, and symptoms typically resolve spontaneously.

2. Corns

Corns result from abnormal keratinization of the epidermis on the sole of the foot. A corn forms a thick, hardened layer of keratin, usually located at pressure points on the foot. During walking, increased pressure and friction further irritate the area, causing discomfort. If the skin beneath the keratinized layer becomes infected, blisters may develop and cause pain. Patients may use medications such as salicylic acid ointment or urea ointment under medical guidance.

3. Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder. When it occurs on the feet, the skin may develop red or skin-colored papulovesicles, often accompanied by itching. Pain may arise during walking due to repeated friction at the affected sites. It is generally recommended that patients use medications such as desonide cream or halometasone cream under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

4. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

This is a contagious fungal skin infection. Patients may develop papules or blisters on their feet, accompanied by symptoms such as itching, stinging, and scaling. Local friction during walking can lead to pain. Treatment should be conducted under medical guidance using antifungal medications such as compound clotrimazole cream or miconazole nitrate cream.

5. Herpes Zoster

Herpes zoster is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus. When it occurs, painful rashes and blisters typically appear along the distribution of affected nerves. If the virus affects nerves in the foot, blisters may develop on the foot and cause pain during walking. Patients may be treated under medical supervision with medications such as acyclovir glucose injection or calamine lotion.

If discomfort occurs on the feet, patients should seek timely treatment to avoid disease progression.