• Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
(A common fungal infection of the feet)
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a common fungal skin infection that affects the feet. It often develops in warm, moist areas such as between the toes and can spread to the soles, toenails, or other body areas.
What Does Athlete’s Foot Look Like?
Common signs include:
- Peeling or cracking between the toes
- Itching, burning, or stinging
- Dry scaling on the soles
- Redness or irritation
- Small blisters in some cases
- Foot odor or discomfort
How Does It Spread?
Athlete’s foot can spread through:
- Locker rooms and showers
- Pool areas
- Shared towels or footwear
- Sweaty socks and tight shoes
- Scratching, then touching other body areas
How Is Athlete’s Foot Treated?
Treatment depends on severity:
- Antifungal creams, gels, or sprays
- Prescription-strength topical medications
- Oral antifungal medication for severe or stubborn cases
- Treating toenail fungus if present
- Moisture control and prevention steps
Pre-Op Instructions
(Before evaluation or treatment)
- Keep feet clean and dry.
- Avoid applying heavy ointments right before your visit.
- Bring or list any OTC antifungal products you have used.
- Tell us if you have diabetes, poor circulation, immune suppression, or toenail changes.
- Bring footwear information if sweating or recurrence is a problem.
Post-Op Instructions
(After starting treatment)
- Use antifungal medication exactly as directed.
- Continue treatment for the full recommended course, even if symptoms improve early.
- Dry carefully between toes after bathing.
- Change socks daily or more often if sweaty.
- Use breathable shoes and rotate footwear.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public locker rooms or showers.
Call the office if redness spreads, pain worsens, cracks become infected, or symptoms do not improve.