Shoebites are common and pretty uncomfortable. Therefore, read on to know how to heal a shoe bite at home with easy remedies!
What is a Shoe Bite?
A shoe bite is a painful sore resulting from wear and tear of the skin due to friction caused by tight or ill-fitting shoes rubbing against your feet. They are painful and uncomfortable and may lead to blisters and swelling. Extremely tight footwear makes it difficult for the feet to breathe, causing them to sweat, which also increases the friction between the feet and the footwear, producing blisters. Women are more prone to shoe bites and are commonly seen behind the ankles or near the toes.
Prevention
- Buy shoes that fit correctly, Pre-stretch them by using a shaper overnight.
- Wear socks
- Use toe caps or protectors
- Apply little deodorant on the heels and toes. It reduces friction and reduces the incidence of blisters
- Add shoe pads or insoles
- Use a moisturizer or petroleum jelly
- Use band-aid or surgical tape in areas prone to blisters
- Apply some baby powder in your new footwear, which makes the insides soft and smooth and also prevents abrasion of your feet.
How to Heal A Shoe Bite
1. Aloe Vera
It contains Glucomannan, which has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that help soothe the blisters on the feet. Take half a teaspoon of Aloe vera gel, apply it generously on the affected area, leave it for 15-20 minutes, and wash it with plain water. Apply it twice a day to see genuine results.
2. Olive Oil
This incredible oil contains bioactive compounds which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. It is advisable to take 2-3 drops of olive oil and mix it with a suitable carrier oil like Almond oil. Apply it to the affected area. Repeat it twice a day till the inflammation subsides.
3. Toothpaste
Menthol present in toothpaste acts as a natural analgesic that helps relieve pain due to shoe bite. Take ½ teaspoon of paste on a clean cotton roll, apply it on the blister, leave it to dry, and then rinse it with plain water. Repeat twice daily.
4. Honey
Honey is known for its soothing effect and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which reduce the inflammation around the shoe bite and also prevent further infection. You need to take a clean piece of gauze or a cotton ball, dip it into a tablespoon of honey, and place it on the affected region for 20 minutes. Repeat it thrice daily.
5. Coconut Oil And Camphor
The Lauric acid present in coconut oil possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. Camphor is commonly popular in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. When used together, they help alleviate swelling and pain in the affected region. Take one tablespoon of coconut oil and one teaspoon of camphor, mix it well, and apply it to the affected area using a clean cotton ball. Apply it twice daily for better results.
6. Neem And Turmeric
It is an age-old combination known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties, which work efficiently on blisters. Take one teaspoon of turmeric powder and a handful of fresh neem leaves and add little water. Blend it all to form a thick paste. Apply it adequately on the affected area and leave it to dry, and rinse it well with water. Do it twice daily.
7. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is known for its moisturizing effect and also has antimicrobial properties. Apply some petroleum jelly and apply it to the shoe bite. You can also cover the area with a clean cloth and leave it overnight. Apply until it heals.
Conclusion
Treating shoe bites is simple, and these remedies give much-needed relief. But preventing shoe bites is always better. If you have recurring ulcers or blisters that don’t respond to home remedies and preventive measures, you should see a medical professional for other treatment options.