The east coast has been slammed with snow and Delaware is just one of those States! With all this snow I've already discussed Hypothermia, Frostbite and now my part 3 of 3 on "Trench Foot".
Trench foot is a medical conition caused by prolonged exposure of the feet to a damp, unsanitary as well as cold condition. Today's snow storm of up to 23 inches is just the right recipe for developing this condition of Trench Foot!
Affected feet may become numb and turn red or blue as a result of poor vascular supply. Feet may also begin to decay if the condition worsens. Many folks will often get blisters and open sores which can lead to fungal infections known as "Jungle rot" or the "tropical ulcer."
If the foot is left untreated it can result in Gangrene which may result in an amputation.
If Trench foot is treated properly then a complete recovery is normal.
Prevention
Trench foot is easily prevented by keeping the feet warm and dry, and changing socks frequently.
It was a particular problem for soldiers in trench warfare, hence the name, during the winters of World Wars I & II as well as the Vietnam War.
During World War I, trench soldiers were provided with whale grease and told to apply it to their feet, to reduce the prevalence of this condition; the idea was to make the feet waterproof. It was found, however, that this made the condition worse as it made the feet perspire and absorb even more water. It was also discovered that a key measure was regular foot inspections by officers.
So be sure to observe your foot this weekend and change wet socks frequently when you walk outside in the snow!
Remember these tips and you will do just fine! Keep Warm and Stay bundled up!
Thanks for listening!
SEARCHING FOR A HOME? Delaware Home Searches at: www.FreeHomeSearch.DreamStation.com Find Homes that meet your criteria and price range! All with the click of a finger! Buying Or Selling? Call Tom Davis at (302)398-3757
Delaware Homes For Sale, Free Home Search www.FreeHomeSearch.DreamStation.com Find Homes Based On Your Criteria! Any Home! Any Price!
excellent information, i had heard the phrase before but was unsure as to what it pertained to, many thanks.
Hi Mary,
No problem!
I appreciate it! Also young kids playing in the snow must have the feet inspected by parents and change socks as needed!
It is not a good idea to leave on wet socks! The trick is to keep the socks dry and you should do okay!
Thanks,
Tom Davis
Good article. I take this stuff very seriously. Through many years of hiking, camping, outdoor sports have taught me to be careful, comfortable and warm in the winter.
Wear leather shoes.
Wearing shoes made of synthetic materials does not permit perspiration to escape and keeps the feet wet.
I use polypropylene sock liners and then a comfortable thick sock. The polypropylene takes the moisture away from the foot. The outer sock keeps me snuggy.
I wear sky clothing for wintertime trap shooting. Warm and easy to move around.
Hi Lenn,
Thanks for sharing some great tips! Thanks for the leather shoe suggestion!
Sky clothing... hymm didn't think of that one!
Thick socks another great point!
Thanks,
Tom Davis