There’s Nothing Sporty About Athletes Foot

Not being an athlete does not excuse you from suffering from athlete’s foot. It is a skin condition that can be found anywhere on the foot. Common areas infected are the sole, toenail, back of the foot and especially the skin in between the toes.  Symptoms include itchiness, thick discolored toenails and dry, scaly patches of skin.

Causes of Athletes’ Foot

Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection. It is more common in men but is not the result of physical differences between the sexes. Rather, it is the result of habits and practices that makes men more susceptible to fungal infection.  

Fungus thrives in warm, dark, moist places like your shoes.

Conditions that make athletes ideal candidates for athlete’s foot?

·       Direct transfer of fungi can occur through sharing the socks with a fellow athlete who has an existing infection.

·       Athletes who don’t regularly wash their feet after an activity.

·       Those who don’t totally dry their feet especially areas in between the toes.

·       Fungus is commonly found in public showers, locker rooms, swimming pools and other types of common bath areas.

·       Athletes commonly use sneakers or closed shoes.

How to know if you have Athlete’s foot?

Common symptoms of Athlete’s foot include cracked, thick, flaky skin on the side of the feet and especially the area between the toes. Other symptoms to look out for are:

·       Red, itchy skin

·       Blisters

·       Burning sensation

·       Stinging pain

·       Thick, discolored toes

A jock itch can also be an indication of Athlete’s foot. Infection is transferred through contact with hands that has come in contact with the infected foot.

Like many foot disorders, Athlete’s foot is not readily visible to others. This can give a sense of complacency among those with Athlete’s foot that they tend to ignore the condition. Any type of infection can lead to serious complications. This is especially true for diabetics with weak immune systems.

Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.