I want to share a question I received about painful hot spots and how to prevent them.
Mike wrote: “I have a pair of Merrell Moab’s, which have been incredible for many months. When I wear shorts, I only use Merrell’s ankle-length hiking socks and when I wear long pants, I use the Merrell socks and I put a pair of regular white socks over them.
“I tend to get painful hot spots on the balls on my feet. I don’t get them all the time though. I had a really bad one before I bought the Merrell’s. The only thing that helps is sports tape and bandage wrap.
“Where am I going wrong? When I’m not experiencing hot spots, the bottom part of my little toes feels like they have a rug burn. I have to wrap them in sports tape as well. I’d appreciate any pointers you may have. Not only in how to prevent the hot spots, but how to treat them.”
Here’s my response: Try using another pair of inserts/insoles inside your shoes. Sometimes the insole surface is rough and affects your feet negatively. Check out the rectangle ENGO Blister Prevention patches. These are very slick and thin patches that can be stuck on the insole right under the ball of the foot. Cuts down on friction. Inexpensive. Amazon also carries them.
After trying my suggestion, Mike wrote: “A quick note to thank you for recommending those blister prevention patches. They’re a lifesaver.”
I have been a proponent of ENGO Blister Prevention Patches for years. I always carry a supply of the large and small ovals, the rectangles, and the heel patches. They work well on insoles under the ball of the foot, as in Mike’s case, in the heels of shoes, and inside the toe areas too. They are very vestal and last a long time.
I think they are a great, inexpensive foot care tool for athletes. Add a few to your foot care kit or first aid kit. If you carry a small kit in your hydration pack, toss a few in there too. The trick is to apply them to dry shoes and insoles. Just peel off the backing and stick them where needed. It’s that easy.
