Foot care in the field/bush
Since I was recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes the medicos have been emphasizing foot care to me. I have been pretty good about it since my Marine training; but will be doing some refresher research. One thing I wanted to touch on is that you should have at least one change of socks in your pack as well as a mild laundry soap and foot powder. Field washing of socks is pretty easy. You can practice in your kitchen sink. Use about a teaspoon of detergent(I like All Small and Mighty, Free and Clear, no endorsement implied just my preference) to a couple gallons of warm water in the sink. I use a collapsible bucket in the field. Put the socks in and swish them around a little then let them soak for at least 5 minutes. If you have sweated enough to crust them up give them a scrub between your hands, one sock at a time and swish them in the soap solution again. Let them soak a bit more then wring them out and immerse then in new clean water, wring them out and repeat until all the soap residue is removed. Then wring them out well and pin the to your pack to dry if your going to leave camp or hang the over a more or less horizontal branch. Use of foot powder helps keep moisture under control and extends the length of wear for your socks some. Antibiotic ointment and small bandages called sensitive spots pads should be used on any blisters. Wash your feet at the end of a days hiking if you can't clean everything at least do your feet and check for blisters, cracked skin, callous build up and treat each as needed.
If you would like more info as I rebuild my knowledge I'll post it. God Bless, Merry Christmas and I truly Wonderful New Year to you all. H.A.
