Is it normal that I'm getting blisters on my right foot from walking 4 miles per day?

I've decided to start walking 4 miles per day, which is something I've done before (and while I did develop blisters before, I just sort of toughed it out– I also don't remember them being quite as bad as they are now). I really want to increase my fitness, and my goal is to have made a noticeable difference, even if small, by the time the pools open up later in May, which I think is attainable.

Anyway, I've been using my Adidas and Skechers shoes, which I find really comfortable for everyday stuff, but I'm rubbing blisters on the balls of my right foot, and I have a blood blister on the underside of my heel (though it isn't painful, it's a dark brown spot maybe slightly larger than a pencil eraser, and it startled me when I found it because I didn't know what it was at first). My worst blisters are on the balls of my feet, especially in the center. I have a bad one right now and I'm bummed that I have to take a break. I just did one mile tonight and could tell it was irritating my foot. I've tried putting vaseline/petroleum jelly on my feet to reduce friction in my socks, and I've also tried doubling my socks in an attempt to reduce friction. Neither really seems to help all that much, unfortunately.

I'm definitely planning on getting a good pair of athletic walking shoes with a better design, but I'm wondering if I should be concerned that I'm only having issues with one foot. I do have a bit of a limp I've had my entire life from a condition I was born with that I no longer have, but has left me with weakness in the muscles in one side of my hip. I've limped my entire life. I'd like to seek physical therapy for this, but I'm scared of the cost, especially long term.

Is this concern for a worse issue, or just an issue with my shoes? Has anyone else dealt with anything similar?

Also, on the topic of athletic shoes for walking, what brands are recommended? Or is it more of a case of whatever fits best? I am pretty hard to fit in general when it comes to shoes and I've always had issues with new shoes, and especially boots, rubbing and blistering until they're broken in (which doesn't happen with the Adidas and Skechers I buy, but apparently they're not meant to walk 4 miles in).

Mamapolo2016 · F

I have always had a problem with shoes, especially until shoes of different widths became more affordable.

I would suggest trying some inserts. I use heel inserts that cup my heels and prevent what my mom called “walking my shoes over.” After some wear, my shoes always broke down at the outside of the shoe.

Blisters usually indicate either that the skin is rubbing on something or sliding on something. If you haven’t yet, you can try using talcum powder, which might help with that.

But at your age, try inserts, but since you clearly are active, I’d recommend starting with a podiatrist, who should be able to pinpoint what isn’t working quite right and help you figure out how to fix it.

meggie · F

My partner went to the chiropodist suffering the same thing as you. He recommended Fitville shoes you order online. They were very reasonably priced and often have sales on and free delivery. They come in various widths too, if your feet are a bit wider. I paid about £25 for each pair I've had and wear them every day. I don't get any more blisters or corns on my little toes.

Massageman · 70-79, M

Blisters on the ball of the foot- assuming the shoes are a really good fit- should not be occurring. If your shoes fit well, I would first look at the socks you are wearing. Constant rubbing of loose socks can create many problems, blisters among them. My issue is that I get my lower Achilles Tendon area touched up by the backs of the shoes, and if the shoes are too cushy then they slide off of my foot. (I have a bunch of other foot issues- genetic- but that's beside the point. ). Hint- When you buy a new pair of shoes, bring a pair of the socks you will be wearing WITH those shoes to ensure a more accurate fit. Try them on in the morning and the evening as your foot size will change throughout the day.