Athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection affecting the skin of the feet. This condition thrives in warm, moist environments, making it particularly prevalent among athletes, hence its name. The fungus responsible for athlete's foot, known as dermatophyte, thrives in communal areas such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and showers, where it can easily spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or through sharing of towels and footwear. Additionally, individuals who wear tight-fitting shoes or frequently sweat excessively are at a higher risk of developing athlete's foot due to the conducive environment it provides for fungal growth. The characteristic symptoms of athlete's foot can include itching, burning, and stinging sensations between the toes or on the soles of the feet. In some cases, the infection may lead to the development of red, scaly patches or blisters. Athlete’s foot can be a stubborn foot condition. If you have developed this ailment, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward the best methods for relief and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.