Blisters. (yuck)!

http://www.hughston.com/hha/a.11.2.6.htm

What?Why?How?Shearing forces, pressure, moderate presence of moisture

Clear fluid and/or blood accumulates

in pocket formed between separated layers of skin.

Painful.Fluid gradually absorbed.Blistered skin falls off.

Painful.Secondary infection occurs.Antibiotics required.

The Culprits• wet feet• stiff, rubbing boots• downhill pounding• folded socks• rocks in socks• foxes in soxes• dehydration/low sodium intake• foot abnormalies (bunions, heel spurs…)

Boots

• Get boots that fit well---experiment!

• Break in boots …………………………… …………………….50 miles ……………... …………………………

• Reintroduce feet to boots at beginning of season.

Wear 2 layers of socks

• Layer 1 wicks: CoolMax/acrylic/polypro

• Layer 2 insulates: wool/wool-blend

• NEVER WEAR ___(fill in blank)___!!!

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

Blisteredsoldiers

BADLYblisteredsoldiers

No liner

Coolmax liner

Even the Marines….

While on the trail...

• Go easy on mileage.

• Keep pack light.

• Change socks every few hours.

• Change out of wet socks.

• STOP! And adjust/remove/dry at discomfort

The medicine cabinet

• Reduce friction with petroleum jelly/ talcum power/bag balm/lanolin.

• Toughen skin with tincture of benzoin or alcohol or strong tea (tannic acid)

• Pre-wrap sensitive spots/whole foots with moleskin/Second Skin/gel packs/

athletic tape/duct tape.• feet

Other helpful hints.

• Wear lining sock inside out.

• Try ankle-length nylons.

• Skip the pedicure.

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.f my