The Low Down On Athlete's Foot

Paying attention to your feet can go a long way in protecting you from unnecessary pain and discomfort. By taking some simple daily steps to protect your feet and receiving professional care from the office of Premier Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, you can enjoy optimal foot health.

If you're experiencing itching, burning, or stinging sensations between the toes or on the soles of your feet along with cracked, blistered, peeling, and inflamed skin, it's likely you're suffering from Athlete's Foot. Just don't let the name fool you! You don't need to be involved in any sport to contract Athlete's Foot. It's a common and contagious fungal infection that thrives in many warm and moist environments. Anyone in direct contact with an infected person or a surface contaminated with the fungus can acquire Athlete's Foot.

Our podiatry office recommends the following measures to lower your risk of contracting athlete's foot:

• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms, public swimming pools, communal changing rooms, or bathing areas
• Don’t share shoes, socks, or towels
• Use an antifungal powder when needed to help reduce foot perspiration
• Wash your feet daily with soap and water; cleaning between your toes and drying your feet thoroughly when finished
• Wear socks made from materials that draw moisture away from the feet, such as cotton, wool, or silk
• Choose well-ventilated leather or canvas shoes to allow your feet to breathe
• Change your footwear regularly so that your shoes have a chance to dry out

While Athlete's Foot may be diagnosed by simply examining the area, not all itchy and scaly feet are indicative of this condition. In some cases, dermatitis, psoriasis, a low-grade skin infection or other conditions may produce similar symptoms. For this very reason, we sometimes recommend additional diagnostic tests. Of course, once a definitive diagnosis is made, we'll prescribe the appropriate antifungal medication and treatment plan. When used as directed, this type of medication in combination with daily foot hygiene and improved foot care practices can help resolve your infection as well as prevent it from spreading.

It's always a good idea to contact us when suffering a problematic foot condition. At the office of Premier Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. For more information on our office and the many services that we provide, give us a call today.

By Premier Foot and Ankle Center, LLC July 28, 2020