Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot got its name from the fact that it often affects athletes going barefoot in locker rooms, but anyone can get this itchy fungal infection. The experienced podiatrists at Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery treat athlete’s foot, quickly easing your symptoms and helping you prevent recurrent infections. If you need relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of athlete’s foot, request an appointment online or call the office in Burbank, Northridge, or Santa Clarita, California, today!

What causes athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) occurs when fungal organisms (dermatophytes) infect your feet, usually taking hold in the skin between your toes.

Fungal infections are very contagious. As a result, they’re frequently picked up from contaminated surfaces. For example, many people get the infection by going barefoot in a locker room or the public shower at a pool. 

You can also spread the infection to other parts of your body by touching your feet, then touching another part of your body without washing your hands.

Can I prevent athlete’s foot?

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as inside sweaty shoes. As a result, you’re more likely to get athlete’s foot if you have excessively sweaty feet or wear tight-fitting shoes.

You can lower your risk of developing athlete’s foot if you:

• Avoid walking barefoot in locker rooms
• Wear ventilated shoes
• Wear cotton socks
• Alternate shoes (give each pair time to dry out)
• Wash and dry your feet daily
• Don’t share towels, socks, or shoes

A weakened immune system also increases your risk. Many people frequently come into contact with fungal organisms but don’t develop an infection because their immune system fights it off.

What symptoms occur due to athlete’s foot?

After athlete’s foot develops, you have symptoms such as:

• Itching and burning
• Dry, scaly skin
• Red, thickened skin
• Inflammation and swelling
• Blisters

These symptoms usually begin between your toes but may spread over your foot or into the toenail.

How is athlete’s foot treated?

The first line of treatment for athlete’s foot includes antifungal medications. A mild infection may improve with antifungal products from your local pharmacy, but many people need prescription strength medications to eliminate the problem. Depending on the severity of your infection, your Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery provider prescribes a topical ointment or oral tablet.

An ongoing fungal infection may lead to a bacterial infection. Bacteria have the opportunity to take hold due to the blisters, skin cracks, and inflammation caused by athlete’s foot. If this happens, your provider may prescribe antibacterial medication.

Your podiatrist also evaluates your shoes to be sure they fit properly. They may recommend changes in your daily self-care routine that minimize your risk of a recurrent infection.

To get exceptional care for athlete’s foot, call Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery or book an appointment online today.