Download blisters

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
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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)___!!!
Even the Marines….
100%
80%
No liner
Coolmax liner
60%
40%
20%
0%
Blistered
soldiers
BADLY
blistered
soldiers
While on the trail...
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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.
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Wear lining sock inside out.
Try ankle-length nylons.
Skip the pedicure.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.f my