Common Conditions We Treat

Athlete's foot

Athlete's foot or Tinea Pedis is a skin disease caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes. The fungus most commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment, which encourages fungus growth. It is most commonly associated with warm, moist and damp areas, such as swimming pools and changing rooms at gyms. The term " athlete's foot " became popular because the infection was common among athletes who used these facilities frequently. Other conditions, such as disturbances of the sweat mechanism, reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes, eczema, and psoriasis, may mimic athlete's foot.

What are the symptoms of athlete's foot?

The signs of athlete's foot, singularly or combined, are dry skin, itching, scaling, inflammation, and blisters. Blisters often lead to cracking of the skin. When blisters break, small raw tissue areas are exposed, causing pain and swelling. Itching and burning may increase as the infection spreads.

Athlete's foot may spread to the soles of the feet and to the toenails. It can be spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch themselves elsewhere.

What should I do if I have athlete's foot?

It is not easy to prevent athlete's foot because it is most often contracted in dressing rooms, showers, and swimming pool locker rooms where bare feet come in contact with the fungus. However, you can take steps to prevent infection by practising good foot hygiene. Daily washing of the feet with soap and water; drying carefully, especially between the toes; and changing shoes and socks regularly to decrease moisture help prevent the fungus from infecting the feet. The daily use of a good quality foot powder will also help.

Here are some of our top tips:

Avoid walking barefoot; use shower shoes.
Reduce perspiration by using talcum powder.
Wear light and airy shoes.
Change shoes daily to allow them to "air."
Wear socks that keep your feet dry, and change them frequently if you perspire heavily. We recommend moisture-wicking socks.

What shouldn't I do if I have athlete's foot?

If you suspect that you have athlete's foot, you should not ignore it, hoping that it will go away without treatment. Athletes' foot can be very contagious, and you should seek professional help as soon as possible. Our team of podiatrists in Birmingham would be happy to help.

Could there be any long-term effects from athlete's foot?

Athletes' foot is not a severe infection and can be treated quickly and easily with the correct advice and medication.

Podiatry treatment for athlete's foot

Your podiatrist can advise on the most effective treatment for your symptom's; fungicidal chemicals are used for athlete's foot treatment, as well as providing information about how to avoid the problem returning.

If the infection has caused secondary bacterial infections, antibiotics, such as penicillin, that are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria may be prescribed.

If you think you may have a fungal irritation, contact us to book a consultation with one of our podiatrists. Or, you can use our easy, online book in system.