What causes immersion foot?

Immersion foot, also known as trench foot, occurs when the feet are exposed to cold and damp conditions for an extended period. The primary cause is prolonged exposure to water, particularly when the feet are submerged or remain wet. When standing in water for a long time, the skin begins to break down due to the cold temperature and constant moisture, leading to symptoms such as numbness, swelling, and discoloration.

This condition is most prevalent in environments where personnel might be in water for extended periods without adequate measures to keep their feet dry and warm, such as during military operations. While other factors like wearing wet socks can contribute to discomfort and other foot-related issues, immersion foot specifically results from standing or exposure to cold and wet conditions over time.