Army - The Soldiers' Newspaper

This blister has become infected and the texta outlines the extent of the infection. Infection via the skin is much more likely when the skin is broken, since agents of infection are generally present on unbroken skin, in boots and garments, a break in the skin provides a direct path for these infections to enter the body.

This blister is a result of excessive movement of the heel in the boot, creating friction at the skin. This may well have been exacerbated by moisture on the skin, which increases friction, but it is difficult to tell at this stage, because the blister itself
produces moisture. Strategies which might have helped here include better
boot fitting, better boot lacing to prevent heel lift inside the boot, a two-sock system to reduce friction at the skin, and socks that wick moisture away from the skin.

Medical information provided by Dr Rod Pope, Coordinator Defence Injury Prevention Program, ARTC.
Photos provided by ARTC

Fighting the foot's old foe

By Maj Nick Stanton
THE Defence Health Service and Kapooka Medical Centre will next year conduct a trial aiming to cut down on blisters.

In a combined effort, Project Land 125 (the Soldier Combat System) will fund the trial, JMA will procure new trial items such as specialist socks, Training Command will provide 600 participants from ARTC and ACPEC will be responsible for the introduction of any clothing items proven by the trial.

Although all soldiers have a personally proven method for preventing blisters, those conducting the trial argue that what works for one soldier, does not necessarily work for the next.

The aim of this trial is to scientifically investigate all of the innovative ideas used by soldiers to develop doctrine and material solutions.

Blisters are generally the result of excessive heat from friction, caused through movement and exacerbated by moisture.

Possible outcomes of the trial may involve identifying ways to cut down on movement by correctly fitting boots, lacing them in an optimal way and wearing a different type of socks.

The trial may also identify a better sock system, specifically designed to draw moisture and heat away from the foot, and reduce friction on the skin.

The trial will commence next year at ARTC under the supervision of Dr Rod Pope, Coordinator of the Defence Injury Prevention Program and Mark Barclay (Physiotherapist-in-Charge, KMC).