What is Trench Foot?

Trench Foot occurs when a person's feet become cold and wet for prolonged periods of time. It can cause blisters and gangrene. If it is not treated quickly, it can lead to severe complications such as amputation or sepsis. It is also possible for trench foot to progress to a stage where the skin starts to slough off.

Trench foot is a serious condition that was a major problem in World War 1. It is characterized by pedal swelling and numbness. When it first appeared in 1914, there was some debate about whether it was a form of frostbite or a new disease. It was eventually recognized that the disease was caused by circulatory changes in the foot brought on by cold, wet, and pressure. Predisposing factors included dietary inadequacy and fatigue.

It was also found that the affected men's socks reeked of an unpleasant odor, similar to that of wounds contaminated with gas bacillus. This suggested that the bacteria, Scopulariopsis koningii, may have multiplied in the liquid mud of the trenches.

Trench foot can be prevented by keeping your feet clean, dry, and warm. Wearing well-fitting shoes and changing your socks regularly is important. If you must stand for long periods of time in cold, wet conditions, try to move around as much as possible to keep blood flowing to your feet. If you have to wear boots, make sure that they are not too tight. If you are a military member or are part of a group that has to go into cold, wet environments for long periods, you should talk with your commander about this risk and request protective footwear.