Blisters are often treated like a rite of passage in ballet... but from a biomechanics perspective, they’re actually important feedback about how your foot is interacting with your shoe.

If you’ve ever tried to dance with a painful blister, you know how much it can affect balance, confidence, and technique. Instead of just “toughing it out,” this episode helps dancers understand blisters as a modifiable mechanical issue, not a weakness.

In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, you will learn:

• What blisters actually are (biologically and mechanically)
• Why ballet dancers get blisters so frequently
• Key differences between toe blisters and heel blisters
• How friction, moisture, repetition, and shoe design contribute
• Safe blister treatment strategies for dancers
• Why pointe shoe fit is one of the biggest predictors of blister formation
• Practical prevention techniques, including toe taping, corn pads, and moisture management

Blister-Related Affiliate Links:

• Blister pads
• Masking tape
• Blister prevention tape
• Corn pads
• Waterproof bandages
• Moleskin

This discussion connects directly to previous Ballet Science episodes and interviews on pointe shoe biomechanics, shoe fitting, and foot mechanics, which are linked below:

• Josephine Lee (Pointe Shoe Fitting)
• Jessica Aquino (Pointe Shoe Biomechanics)

🎧 Whether you’re a ballet student, professional dancer, teacher, or clinician, this episode will change how you think about foot pain and help you dance more comfortably and sustainably.

Watch this episode video on YouTube

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Hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves.

Each week, we will explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.

Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:

• Microphone
• Pop Filter
• Mic Stand
• Prompter
• Large Key Light
• Small Key Light
• Eve Flare Light

Logo Photo: Richard Calmes