The pathophysiology of non-freezing cold injury in male and female military personnel

Interview date: 21 May 2018
Start date: 1 June 2018

Non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) is caused by prolonged exposure to cold (and often cold wet) environments. It most commonly affects the feet, although the hands can also be affected. Although NFCI is often associated with the military, it also occurs in civilian populations working or undertaking recreational activities in hostile environments. In the chronic state, which may last for many years, NFCI is characterised (in variable combination and severity) by cold sensitivity, numbness, hyperhidrosis and persistent pain. Other neurological symptoms may also occur, including paraesthesia, loss of proprioception and, in severe cases, impaired neuromuscular function. Cold sensitivity may be associated with protracted peripheral vasoconstriction leading to an increase in peripheral cooling and resultant pain and numbness, and may increase an individual’s risk of further cold injury. Therefore, the chronic symptoms of NFCI can have a profound effect on an individual’s quality of life and employability, with many service personnel diagnosed with NFCI being medically discharged.

There is a paucity of research in NFCI and therefore its pathogenesis and pathophysiology are poorly understood thus currently the prevention, assessment and treatment of NFCI is not evidence based. Therefore, there is an urgent need for high quality matched case-control studies to identify the neural and vascular changes that occur with NFCI and to identify whether this is the same in men and women. This PhD program will investigate the pathophysiology of NFCI using a wide range of vascular and neural function tests in patients with NFCI and matched control individuals. The ultimate aim will be to develop a valid and reliable diagnostic test for NFCI, based on an understanding of the underlying pathophysiology.

The Extreme Environments Laboratory in the Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Portsmouth has an international reputation for excellence in environmental and occupational physiology with state of the art environmental chambers and equipment. It is anticipated that this project will be conducted primarily at the University of Portsmouth, however periods of data collection at Catterick Army base will also be required.


How to apply:
We welcome applications from highly motivated prospective students who are committed to develop outstanding research outcomes. You can apply online at www.port.ac.uk/applyonline. Please quote project code SPES4501018 in your application form

Candidate specification:
You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at University of Portsmouth. You will have a suitable honours degree (or equivalent) in Human Physiology or a related subject, and a rigorous approach to research together with disciplined work habits. Good communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential.

Enquiries:
Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Clare Eglin ([Email Address Removed])