Decompression of toes

[Subcooled]

I am a bit worried.

I do some light deco dives (max 30 minutes of deco). My problem is with circulation. The water temperature is between +4C and +2C and my dives are not longer than 70-80 minutes. My toes become white and numb during a dive and lack circulation. This means that they will ongas properly, but offgassing (of the skin at least) happens an hour after the dive. Ok, this is not going to be life threatening, but what about my toes? I heard rumours of a guy who got DCS in his feet and lost sensation.

 

[tbone1004]

could happen. Best bet is to get some better socks....

 

[TSandM]

Better insulation on the feet will help, but better insulation overall may be necessary. One of the body's first responses to dropping core temperature is to constrict the blood vessels in the skin and extremities; this keeps the blood in the core, where it stays warmer. If your total insulation is inadequate, the first place you will notice it is in your hands and feet.

It's also very important that whatever you are wearing on your feet is not too constrictive . . . One of the reasons I don't like rock boots is that, to keep them securely on, you have to lace them tightly. This compresses any insulation in the boot, and also restricts blood flow.

 

[Subcooled]

Yes, thicker socks, larger boots, new fins. And another suit for the summer. The cost of comfort.
I guess I could add one layer of clothing to stay warmer and aluminium insoles might fit in the boots.

It is interesting though, that one guy actually got foot DCI. I should really study that more closely as it's inetersting and unexpected... and very specific to cold water.

The cold hits where there is pressure: toes against the fin during kicks. The upper side of the toes is ok.

 

[sunnyboy]

Better insulation on the feet will help, but better insulation overall may be necessary. One of the body's first responses to dropping core temperature is to constrict the blood vessels in the skin and extremities; this keeps the blood in the core, where it stays warmer. If your total insulation is inadequate, the first place you will notice it is in your hands and feet.

It's also very important that whatever you are wearing on your feet is not too constrictive . . . One of the reasons I don't like rock boots is that, to keep them securely on, you have to lace them tightly. This compresses any insulation in the boot, and also restricts blood flow.

I totally agree, especially about the core warmth. With me it was hands, not feet - but I could never keep my hands warm for the whole dive. Adding a long sleeved poly pro undergarment improved things more than any 'more fuzzy' glove liner ever did.

You may also want to investigate heated vests and other heated undergarments. Heated socks might just make your day more fun.

 

[Redshift]

I have a similar problem. It is better now with dry gloves and I have better socks as well, but they do get tighter inside the suit neoprene socks. It's an improvement, but not optimal.