FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Medical advice
Q: It is now several years since I sustained my injuries.
Will I ever get better?
It is impossible to say. Some patients make a full recovery albeit over a period of months or years, some stay the same for the rest of their lives, whilst a few, particularly those who get repeated cold injury, gradually deteriorate. It is impossible to predict what will happen to you and all you can do is care for your hands or feet as well as possible.
Q: How should I care for my feet?
You may find that you benefit from using a foot spa at the end of the day. You should fill the foot spa with water at 40 centigrade and put your feet or hands in the spa for 20 to 30 minutes. If you drink alcohol you may like to have a small glass of your favourite tipple. After 20 to 30 minutes you should take your feet or hands out and dry them before applying powder and putting on your bed socks. Benefits may take some months before they can be seen but by following this routine each night it is possible that your condition will improve to a point where your feet will remain warm throughout the night.
Q: My GP has never heard of cold injuries. Where can I go for help?
The Institute of Naval Medicine Cold Injuries Clinic is happy to see you even after your discharge. You do not need a letter of referral and there is no charge levied by the clinic. The INM will normally then send a report back to your GP. Unfortunately the clinic will not be able to assist you with any travel or accommodation costs incurred in attending. If your Doctor wishes to discuss your condition or treatment proposals he can contact Howard Oakley at the Institute of Naval Medicine on 023 9276 8043.
