Athlete's Foot | Tinea Pedis
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection that can affect the sole of the feet and between the toes. Like fungal nails, it occurs more frequently in the summer, tropical climates, individuals wearing occlusive footwear and/or communal baths or pools.
Dermatophytes are a group of fungi capable of living off the skin and the perfect condition would be in dark, damp, and warm environments where it uses skin cells as a source of nutrients.
Interesting Fact: Athlete’s foot is the most common dermatophyte infection and is associated with
fungal toenail infection in 30-59% of cases (Makola et al., 2018).
5 Common Symptoms for Athlete’s Foot
- Scaly, dry, peeling, or cracked skin
- Itchiness or burning/stinging sensation
- Swollen and redness on the skin
- Malodourous
- Blisters formation in unusual spots on the foot and between the toes
If you believe you are experiencing some of these symptoms, we recommend that you speak with a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and a plan of action.
Athlete's Foot Treatment Options
At Toronto Foot Care, the chiropodist will offer different treatment options for fungal infections depending on the severity of the condition. It may include medicated creams, ointments, sprays, powders. Although treating the symptoms is only one part of the solution, it is always important to find and treat the cause of the problem or else it will continue to come back.
During your appointment, we will go through a thorough assessment and offer the most desirable course of action specific to each patient.
Ready for your first visit?
Book an appointment today or call us at (416) 444-3668 to learn more about our foot care services.
Makola, N. F., Magongwa, N. M., Matsaung, B., Schellack, G., & Schellack, N. (2018). Managing athlete’s foot. South African Family Practice, 60(5), 37-41.