If you have a rash between your toes or find your feet to be itchy, scaly, stinging or burning, you may have contracted athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It doesn’t just affect athletes, anyone can develop this fungus. Your feet are exposed to the tinea fungus when they come in contact with a contaminated surface. Communal showers, locker rooms, public swimming pools, and gyms are often crawling with the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. If your feet are damp from water or sweat, they are extra susceptible to picking up this fungus. As athlete’s foot is highly contagious, sharing contaminated items, such as towels, shoes or socks, also puts you at risk. If you have athlete’s foot it is strongly recommended that you see a podiatrist who can prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer from Summit Foot & Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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