Athlete's Foot Specialist

What is athlete's foot?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection. It begins on the feet and appears most commonly between the toes. But it can also infect the soles or sides of your feet.

Athlete’s foot appears as a scaly red rash. It can itch, sting, and burn. Severe cases can result in blisters, ulcers, and chronic dryness.

What causes athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is a product of sweat. Tight-fitting and poorly insulated shoes during physical activity increase the moisture and heat within your socks and shoes, which provides an environment for fungus to grow. Living and playing in a warm and humid climate increase the risk of fungus forming on your feet.

Athlete’s foot is contagious. Common spaces where there is sweat and bare skin – the locker room being a prime example – are fertile ground for the spread of fungus. In these environments athlete’s foot can be spread through shared floors, towels, and clothing.

Any contact of the affected area with your own hands can result in the spread of athlete’s foot beyond your feet to your hands, nails, or another area of your body, as well as the risk of additional bacterial infection.

How do I prevent athlete’s foot?

To prevent athlete’s foot, keep your feet dry, especially between your toes. Also, keep your feet protected in public spaces. Remove and change damp socks as quickly as possible. Wear shoes with ventilation, and allow them to dry after use before wearing them again.

Do not walk barefoot in shared spaces, especially where others have been or are sweating. Don’t share shoes, towels, or unwashed clothing with others.

What is the cure for athlete’s foot?

Remedies for athlete’s foot are easy to get. Antifungal medications can be purchased over the counter. Popular brands include Lotrimin, Lamisil, and Tinactin. If you do not see improvements with these over-the-counter items, see your Run Doctor physician for possible prescriptions including topical creams or steroid medications, oral antifungal medications, and oral antibiotics.

Athlete’s foot is a bacterial infection, and can therefore come with a variety of additional complications. There is always the risk of recurrence, plus the potential for secondary bacterial infections, including but not limited to your lymphatic system.