physical problem from footbinding

the most obvious physical effect of footbinding was crippled gait. gangrene, infection, paralysis, and muscle atrophy were also noted. unfortunately, there are few writings documenting the specific physical problems associated with the first few months or years of footbinding. the writings also discuss pus in the bindings and shoes. the reference to blood and pus does point toward infection.

in the essay painful words about lotus hooks by Chueh Fei Sheng, he discusses his own wife's footbinding experience and the frequent pain and infections she suffered: "i was from av average family, whre daughters in law had to draw water from the well and pound the mortar. my wife, with tiny and weak feet, couldnt stand the heavy labor. whenever the foot infections caused her to have to sweep the floors on her knees. i placed bean curd peeling or vegetable leaves on her foot binding. at such times, i couldnt help thinking of evil and injurious this custom was. suddenly my fondness for the golden lotus came to an end"