Hallo Kris,
Here are some basic tips with regards foot care for anybody who is in the reenacting
field or even basic hillwalking.
FRICTION FOOT BLISTERS:-Blisters are small swelling of the skin that contains watery fluid. They are caused by friction. The body responds to the friction by producing fluid. (Hemoglobin) The fluid builds up beneath the part of the skin being rubbed, causing pressure and pain.
The Hemoglobin can not be reabsorbed back into the body once it forms.
Blisters occur when feet get hot, sweaty and socks stick to the feet. The sock and foot then rub against each other and the inside of the shoe. Fluid fills up a space between layers of skin to protect the area, like a small balloon.
There are many different causes of foot blisters. Some of the most common causes of foot blisters are:
* Heat, moisture and friction.
* Friction forces caused by inappropriate shoes or socks.
* Fungal infections of the skin.
* Allergic reactions or burns.
* Excessive foot perspiration.
If a blister is red, leaking yellow fluid or has red lines near the blister, visit a doctor immediately. Redness and leaking yellow fluid are symptoms of infection.
It is also caused by wearing the wrong size shoes or boots, either to big or forcing your feet into a pair that is too small. The wearing of man made fiber socks such as polyester can be to blame as well.
WARNING!! People with diabetes may not be able recognize the painful event due to a condition called neuropathy. A doctor should attend to their blisters and burns.
Blisters are a common problem with athletes wearing in new shoes. They are also a common problem for athletes, runners and walkers who participate in exceptionally long events such as marathons or long hill walks. And of course the military.
FOOT CARE & PREVENTIVE MEASURES:-My experience with blisters comes from my service with the Irish Military, a combination of new issued boots, polyester socks and 25 mile route marches.
It is essential that the correct shoe - boot size is obtained, squeezing your feet into a pair of boots one size to small is just as bad as wearing a pair two sizes to big, remember that feet tend to swell as you walk long distances so obtain a pair of boots at least half a size to one size larger than your normal
shoe size. Break in the new boots gradually by wearing them around town for a few hours at a time.
Also cotton socks, woolen socks or a combination with more of the wool and cotton to polyester are far better than just socks made from 100% man-made fibers.
You can take a bar of soap, wet it, and apply soap into the inside area of the heel on the socks and the lower part of the sock which will be next to the soles of your feet.
Feet should be washed, dried and a liberal dose of baby powder applied, around the feet, and even into the socks along with the soap, and apply some powder into the boots. Carry a spare pair of socks with you, if its going to be a long day of re-enacting take two or three pairs.
If you get your boots and feet wet, then do like the real soldier is taught, remove your boots at the first appropriate moment, dry the feet apply powder and dry socks.
It might be an idea on "route marches" and reenactment days, to appoint a "medic" and hold a foot inspection. A medical bag containing tape, bandages, foot-powder, medical alcohol swabs, needles and matches. should be at hand to help treat the blisters in the early stages:-
BASIC GUIDE TO TAPING FEET / BLISTER PREVENTION:-from:- http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/foot/blisters/taping.php
What is required?
* A single roll of 2.5cm (1 inch) zinc oxide tape is all that is required.
* The normal white zinc oxide tape is easily sufficient for most purposes.
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The Heel:
* Apply two or three separate strips of tape across the back of the heel.
* Do not overlap the tape as this will cause a ridge that might rub, or cause the tape to come away.
* Do not have any wrinkles or bumps in the tape as these may cause blisters themselves. Make tiny cuts in the tape if needed to allow better fit.
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The Instep:
* As above apply strips of tape along the inside of the foot.
* Again ensure there are no bubbles or wrinkles.
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The Toes:
* Apply single strips of tape around each toe.
* Try not to overlap the tape but finish just short of a join.
* Avoid having the joins in the tape where they might rub, for instance under or between the toes.
What is the aim of taping?The aim of this taping is to protect the areas of the foot which are prone to blisters. Prevention is far better than cure. Shown below is a taping recommended for a full days walking in boots over hills. For lesser events the athlete may decide to only apply tape where they know it will be required.
TREATING BLISTERS:- If the blister has not burst then it may be necessary to make a small hole at the edge of the blister with a serialized pin or needle, particularly if the blister is on a weight bearing surface. A pin can be sterilized by passing it through a flame, or with medical alcohol.
Do NOT drain a blood filled blister.
Drain the fluid but leave as much of the skin as possible covering the wound. This is an important protective layer for the underlying skin and will help to prevent infection.
Clean the blister with a sterilizing wipe. Yes it will sting but vital to prevent infection. Cover the wound with a second skin or blister plaster - take the time to apply it correctly.
For additional security apply tape over top of the blister bandage.
A TIP FOR HARDENING THE SKIN ON THE FEET:-NOT to be used if:-
a, you have any cuts or blisters already on the feet,
b, suffering from ingrown toenails or foot infections.
Once a week soak the feet in medical alcohol, for 1 hour,
Place Medical Alcohol in a plastic basin, and put your feet in to soak,
with time the feet will become harder, and this technique if used in conjunction with the other tips, will make sure you and your merry band will be marching along quite happily.
I hope the above information is of some use to you,
Kevin in Deva.
