How do the military take care of their feet?

General care: In the field wash your feet when possible, if not, then wipe them over with a cloth especially between the toes. Use surgical spirit and powder to reduce friction. Take your boots off when you sleep, or change into training shoes, and elevate the feet to prevent swelling.

How do army boots prevent blisters?

The best way to avoid blisters is to wear synthetic-blend socks (some synthetics are polyester, acrylic and nylon) versus cotton socks. Synthetic-blend socks help to pull water away from and reduce friction on the skin. These socks also help reduce blisters that can occur during physical training.

How did soldiers cope with trench foot?

The only remedy for trench foot was for the soldiers to dry their feet and change their socks several times a day. By the end of 1915 British soldiers in the trenches had to have three pairs of socks with them and were under orders to change their socks at least twice a day.

How do soldiers keep clean?

Some troops have to rough it, rinsing off using bottles of water, showering under bladder systems, or wiping themselves down with baby wipes to keep clean. Others are lucky enough to have showers setup near their berthing areas.

Does the army check your feet?

If you observe no noticeable arch, then you likely have flat feet. If you’re already in the process of joining the military, they will officially test for flat feet at your Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).

Can military boots cause foot problems?

He reported, “It is well known that rugged boots of the type worn by soldiers can aggrevate (sic) joints and ligaments in the feet and if not corrected, can lead to chronic conditions that are potentially disabling.”

Do soldiers bathe?

An army spends sometimes months in such an area and therefore, there will be some amenities like showers and bathrooms. Even if there are no empty houses around, most armies are capable enough to set up at least some improvised bathroom and shower facilities.

Is trench foot a fungus?

Signs and symptoms The feet often feel warm to touch. Advanced trench foot often involves blisters and open sores, which lead to fungal infections; this is sometimes called jungle rot.

How to prevent foot infections in military uniforms?

Wearing clean pairs of moisture-wicking socks with your military uniform that keep feet warm and dry are the best way to prevent modern foot infections. Sock brands like THORLO now design their products to specifically prevent foot-related maladies.

What kind of fungal infections do soldiers get in the military?

Fungal infections are a common complaint suffered by combat troops operating in warm, damp or wet environments. Jock itch, also known as Tinea cruris, is a fungal infection of the groin, inner thigh, buttocks or genitals and is characterized by an itchy, red and often circular-shaped rash in moist body areas.

How did First World War soldiers stay healthy in the trenches?

Here are 10 ways a First World War soldier could stay healthy in the trenches. 1. Drink clean water 1. Drink clean water Drinking water was transported to front line trenches in petrol cans. It was then purified with chemicals.

Why do military boots cause toenail fungus?

Tight-fitting, non-porous military boots often compress the toes, creating a warm, moist environment in the web spaces. The infecting fungus often interacts with bacteria causing a more severe infection that extends onto the whole of the foot and even under the nails.