We depend on our feet to get us through all the different facets of our lives, but sometimes we neglect their health. Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is one of the most common skin infections that affect your feet. It is a highly contagious fungal infection that generally develops between your toes, although it can certainly spread to other areas of your feet as well. If you have this condition and have had no luck with over-the-counter medication, it may be time to try a more professional approach. Beyond Podiatry features several locations across the United States. Each of our offices is staffed by professional podiatrists ready to address your concerns and help you get the treatment you need.
Causes of Athlete’s Foot
This infection can be contracted in many locations including gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, communal showers, nail salons, and contaminated socks and clothing. Unfortunately, because it is a highly contagious infection, it can be spread directly from person to person by contact. Most people acquire fungus on their feet from walking barefoot in areas where someone else with an athlete’s foot has recently walked.
Signs of Athlete’s Foot
An athlete’s foot infection might start out as a little burning or itching between your toes. In fact, this infection can sometimes be mistaken for eczema or having dry skin, so it’s important to seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis early on. If not properly addressed, your symptoms can worsen quickly. As the infection builds up, you may experience a scaly rash, blisters, ulcers, as well as redness and inflammation in the infected site.
Treatment Options
If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of this infection, it is important to get in touch with us for a thorough examination. In most cases, an experienced podiatrist can diagnose an athlete’s foot infection on the spot, simply by examining your rash. For a more thorough analysis, our specialists at Beyond Podiatry can take skin scrapings and evaluate your skin under a microscope. Once they confirm your case of athlete’s foot, they will talk with you to determine a course of action for your treatment plan which may include:
- Prescription-strength topical antifungal ointments
- Oral antifungal medications
- Anti-itch powders or sprays
Athlete’s Foot Treatment
If you are experiencing redness, soreness, and tenderness between your toes, it’s time to pay us a visit and see if you have athlete’s foot. Dr. Natalie Moussa at our Michigan Foot and Ankle Center branch in Livonia, MI, is here to help you kick that fungal infection to the curb. With fun, personalized care and the latest treatments, she’ll get your feet feeling fresh and fabulous again. Don’t wait—contact us today and say goodbye to athlete’s foot!
Don’t live in Illinois? No worries! We have locations nationwide. Use our Request an Appointment tool to find the office closest to you. All of our locations feature the latest innovations in medical equipment, including digital x-rays, ultrasounds, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT) treatment, and more. At Beyond Podiatry, we are committed to helping you achieve positive outcomes for long-term foot and ankle health.
