What is trench foot? Why Matt Hancock may be exempt from I’m A Celeb challenges

Matt Hancock may not be able to take part in some bushtucker trials

(Picture: Victoria Jones/PA)

Conservative MP Matt Hancock might be exempt from a number of the I’m a Celeb trials due to reportedly suffering from a condition that used to afflict soldiers.

A source who spoke to the Sun explained: “When he was filming SAS Who Dares Wins in October, Matt got trench foot – in fact, a lot of the cast did. It can take up to six months to recover from that, so any water-based tasks or swimming trials would be bad news for his feet.”

So what exactly is trench foot and how is it treated? Here’s what we know.

What is trench foot?

Trench foot is an ailment caused by prolonged exposure to cold, moist, or unsanitary conditions.

Also known as immersion-foot syndrome, the condition first become known during World War I, when the cold and wet conditions in trenches gave soldiers trench foot.

Trench foot first became known during the First World War (Nigel Blundell)

Standing in wet socks or shoes for a long period of time impacts circulation and nerve functions, depriving your feet of oxygen and nutrients.

Its symptoms include blisters, tingling, numbness, pain when exposed to heat, redness, and skin-tissue reactions.

If left untreated, trench foot can lead to severe blisters, gangrene, or tissue loss, ulcers, permanent nerve damage, inability to walk, and amputations.

How is trench foot treated?

During the First World War, soldiers were given bed rest, and lead and opium foot washes, as initial treatment. Once their symptoms improved, they would start to apply plant-based oil and massage the affected areas.

Today, those with trench foot are told to rest and elevate the affected foot to encourage circulation, and prevent new blisters from forming.

Patients are given painkillers to cope with the pain and swelling during the treatment period.

Those who suspect that they may be suffering from trench foot are advised to take off their socks, clean the affected areas straight away, dry their feet thoroughly, try to warm their feet, and see a doctor to avoid complications.

When caught early, trench foot is entirely treatable.