Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, primarily between the toes. The fungi typically thrive in warm, moist environments, making public showers, locker rooms, and shared towels common sources of transmission. Risk factors for athlete's foot include wearing tight or occlusive footwear, excessive sweating, and poor circulation. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itchy, scaly patches between the toes to blisters and thickened skin on the soles of the feet. While topical antifungal treatments are usually effective, stubborn cases may require oral antifungal medication. A chiropodist can accurately diagnose the infection, provide personalized treatment options, and suggest strategies to prevent recurrence. If you have a troublesome athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Athlete’s Foot? 

Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include: 

• Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet

• Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet

• Scaly, red rash on the foot

• Blisters 

• Foul odor

Treatment

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both. 

Prevention

Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices. 

You can prevent athlete’s foot by:

• Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day

• Wearing shoes when walking in public areas

• Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others

• Wearing shoes and socks made out of breathable materials

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.