What are Blisters?
A blister is a small pocket of clear fluid-filled skin. They are most commonly caused by friction, burning, freezing, chemical exposure, or infection. Blisters can occur on any area of the body but are most common on the hands and feet.
Causes of Blisters on the Hands from Playing Tennis
There are several reasons why a person might get blisters on their hands from playing tennis. These include:
- Friction – Repeated friction between the racket and the hands can cause blistering. This is especially true if the racket is too tight or the grip is too small.
- Sweat – Sweat can make the hands slippery, which can cause blisters if the grip is too tight or if the racket is too heavy.
- Pressure – Tight gripping of the racket can cause blisters. This is especially true if the grip is too large or the racket is too heavy.
- Heat – Prolonged exposure to heat can cause blisters, especially if the grip is too tight.
Preventing Blisters on the Hands from Playing Tennis
There are several steps a person can take to prevent blisters on their hands from playing tennis. These include:
- Grip – Make sure the grip is not too tight or too loose. It should be just tight enough to provide control and comfort.
- Racket – Make sure the racket is not too heavy or too light. It should be just heavy enough to provide power and control.
- Grips – Consider using a sweat- absorbing grip or an overgrip to help reduce friction and moisture.
- Clothing – Wear light, breathable clothing that will help keep the hands cool and dry.
- Gloves – Consider wearing gloves to help reduce friction and keep the hands dry.
Treating Blisters on the Hands from Playing Tennis
If a person does get blisters on their hands from playing tennis, there are several steps they can take to treat them. These include:
- Clean – Gently clean the blister with warm water and mild soap.
- Dry – Make sure the area is completely dry before applying any treatment.
- Cover – Cover the blister with a bandage or gauze to help protect it from further irritation.
- Pain relief – Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce pain and swelling.
- Moisturize – Apply a moisturizer to the area to help keep the skin hydrated and reduce friction.
When to See a Doctor
If the blisters are severe or if they become infected, it is important to see a doctor. Other signs of infection include redness, swelling, and drainage.
Home Remedies for Blisters on the Hands from Playing Tennis
There are several home remedies a person can use to help heal blisters on their hands from playing tennis. These include:
- Apple cider vinegar – Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the blister for 20 minutes. Repeat this three times a day until the blister has healed.
- Honey – Apply honey directly to the blister and cover with a bandage. Leave it on for at least an hour and then remove. Repeat this several times a day until the blister has healed.
- Aloe vera – Apply aloe vera gel directly to the blister and cover with a bandage. Leave it on for at least an hour and then remove. Repeat this several times a day until the blister has healed.
- Tea tree oil – Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of olive oil and apply it to the blister. Cover with a bandage and leave it on for at least an hour before removing. Repeat this several times a day until the blister has healed.
When to Pop a Blister
In general, it is not recommended to pop a blister. This can cause the blister to become infected. However, if the blister is large, painful, or at risk of bursting, it can be popped carefully with a sterile needle.
How to Pop a Blister
If a person chooses to pop a blister, they should follow these steps:
- Clean – Wash the hands and the area around the blister with warm water and soap.
- Sterilize – Sterilize a needle with rubbing alcohol.
- Puncture – Gently puncture the blister near the edge with the sterilized needle. Make sure not to puncture the blister too deeply.
- Drain – Gently press on the blister to allow the fluid to drain out.
- Clean – Clean the area with warm water and soap.
- Dry – Pat the area dry with a clean cloth.
- Protect – Cover the area with a bandage to help protect it from further irritation.
Conclusion
Blisters on the hands from playing tennis are common but can be prevented and treated with the proper care. It is important to make sure the grip is not too tight, the racket is not too heavy, and to wear breathable clothing. If a person does get a blister, it is important to clean it, apply a bandage, and take over-the-counter pain relievers for pain and swelling. If the blister is large, painful, or at risk of bursting, it can be popped carefully with a sterile needle. It is important to seek medical attention if the blister becomes infected.