Last Updated on 15.3.24 by Gary Boyd
Non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) symptoms are commonly suffered in the feet and/or hands (the most well-known form is ‘trench foot’), typically after a soldier has been cold and wet for a sustained period of time. On rewarming, there is altered sensation and often discolouration with periods of paleness followed by redness, along with swelling and pain.
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What is a non-freezing cold injury?
Non-freezing cold injuries (NFCI’s) often lead to long term/ permanent increased sensitivity to cold. Whilst all soldiers are at risk of NFCI, research suggests those of black Afro-Caribbean ethnicity are at 2.8 to 6 times more susceptible. Smokers are also more predisposed to NFCI, which is primarily a neurovascular condition.
What should you do if you have a non-freezing cold injury?
It is important that soldiers noticing any of the above symptoms report them promptly to their medical officer/ centre. They should then be referred immediately for the requisite investigations. These are typically carried out at the Cold Injury Clinic at the Institute of Naval Medicine. Delays in investigation and diagnosis should be minimised because those diagnosed with NFCI should immediately be placed on restricted employment, sheltered from cold and damp conditions and are unlikely to be able to play many sports or to be fully deployable, in order to maximise the chances of recovery.
Gorvins’ Expertise in NFCI claims
The Military Personal Injury Department at Gorvins , headed by Partner Gary Boyd, is highly experienced in military NFCI claims and has achieved many of the highest awards reported for such claims including one settled at £920,000.00 , one of ( if not the ) highest on record.
We know the best medical and other experts to instruct to provide evidence and the best barristers, to ensure you receive the right compensation, as reflected in the following testimonial from one of our NFCI clients: :
“Thanks to Gary Boyd for his support and wonderful service. He is very knowledgeable about personal injury claims, particularly military claims and NFCI. I would appeal to all injured service personnel/ Veteran out there- Gary Boyd is your man. He is always available to his clients, he is someone who listens and can help you and your family recover 100% of your claim even when others tell you your claim is worthless. Gary Boyd and his team take the burden off you and fight your case for you. For instance, we were told our claim was worth a specific amount by other big lawyers, but Gary Boyd won more than 2 times that amount which was outstanding!.
I speak from the heart to all injured soldiers and Veterans out there, the man you need to conduct your claim is Gary Boyd of Gorvins Solicitors or, as my family calls him, “The Magic Man”.
“
Mr O, Military Veteran and NFCI sufferer
Making a legal claim for a non-freezing cold injury
It is vital that those suffering from suspected NFCI’s seek early legal advice, as strict time limits (usually three years from the incident causing the injury) apply in bringing claims. This is particularly important in the many cases where soldiers face the possibility of early medical discharge.
To discuss your case with Gary you can call us on 0161 930 5151 or fill in our online enquiry form and let us call you back to see how we can help.
Gary Boyd
Partner & Head of Military & Serious Sports Injury Claims, Military Claims
