"Tide-foot" is a term used to describe a chronic condition that affects the residents of The Puddles, a notoriously flood-prone district in Absalom. This ailment arises from prolonged exposure to stagnant, floodwater that regularly submerges the streets and homes of this impoverished area. The water, often contaminated with sewage and industrial waste, leads to a variety of health issues, primarily affecting the feet and lower extremities of those who live and work there.
Tide-foot is a visible mark of poverty, as it primarily affects those who cannot afford to live in better-drained, cleaner parts of the city. The condition not only stigmatizes sufferers but also limits employment opportunities, as physical mobility is essential for most labor jobs available to the community. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, often dependent on charity or community support for medical care and daily needs.
Managing tide-foot involves regular cleaning of the affected areas, application of medicated ointments to manage infections, and, importantly, trying to keep the feet dry and clean. Community efforts to improve drainage and sanitation in The Puddles can reduce the prevalence of tide-foot, but economic and logistical challenges often slow progress. Local healers and charity groups from more affluent parts of Absalom occasionally conduct medical camps to provide relief and basic medical services.