CARE OF THE FEET.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 15906, 1 May 1915, Page 6 (Supplement)

CARE OF THE FEET.

Excellent advice on the caro of the feet is given to soldiers by a well-known doctor. The nails, he says, should bo kept short, but not cut right down to tho quick. The feet must be washed every day. After a march the feet are hot and damp, and a good sluice with plenty of water is the only way to keep the skii. healthy. AH the corners between the toes should bo washed with care; it may bo uncomfortable, but cold water hardens the feet better than hot. Two pairs of socks should ho in use and worn on alternate days; the unused pair should be hung up to dry and air. The bootlaces should not be tied too tightly; pressure from tight laces is a common source of chafing and blisters. If a blister does form, it should bo pricked with a, needle passed through a match-flame to clean it; tho skin should not bo cut off. Condy's fluid added to the water if an excellent cleanser. I find that the men use ii too strong. The water should be just pink, not the colour of ink. A small piece of boracic lint fastened on with sticking-plaster should be placed over the blister to prevent further friction. It is sometimes better to tako a day's rest even if the foot is not very bad. The surgeon must decide, but a stitch in time saves nine. Tho feet of a soldier must be taken much greater care of than tho feet of a civilian. In spite of all my preaching, I am afraid civilians do not wash their feet every day, and when they become soldiers "they do not tako to it like ducks to water; they have to be taught.