Trench Foot

Trench foot is caused by prolonged exposure to cold (temperature 0 - 20 degrees) and wet environment. Tissue injury is caused by swelling of the skin and damage to the small blood vessels due to water absorption at cold temperatures. It is characterised by numbness, pain, leg cramping, pale and wrinkled soles, blisters, ulcers and gangrene in severe cases. Tissue loss can take months to heal.

Frostnip, chilblains and trenchfoot respond well to rewarming with dry heat. Treatment also consists of elevating the affected part and avoiding manipulation or pressure. Topical antibiotic cream is also useful.