Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s Foot is the name given to a fungal infection of the skin. Treatments depend on what type of Athlete’s Foot you have and this is where the Podiatrist can help you.  Below is a very basic guide to help you get started.

For Athlete’s Foot, where the skin conditions are dry; if the condition occurs on a dry area such as your heel, you need to restore moisture by rubbing in an anti-fungal cream or spray, sometimes combined with a steroid cream. You must remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards, or use disposable gloves to avoid contact and spread of the the fungus to your hands or other parts of your body.

For Athlete’s Foot, where the skin conditions are moist: this condition requires an altogether different type of treatment to that given above. Wash your feet in very cold water (as hot water only makes your feet fungus-friendly), then dry them thoroughly after washing, preferably with a separate towel or even kitchen roll. It is important to dab your feet dry rather than rub them, as rubbing tends to take away any healing skin. Although the skin may appear flaky and dry, never use moisturiser between your toes, and also avoid powders as they can cake up and irritate the skin. A spirit-based preparation, such as surgical spirit, can help (it’s cooling, soothing and antiseptic). This may sting a little but will evaporate the moisture and allow the skin to heal.

Sometimes in severe cases, an anti-fungal tablet is prescribed. However, tablets are not suitable for everyone, so always check with your pharmacist and follow the instructions carefully.

You should also avoid using anti-fungal powders between the toes, they’re good for dusting inside shoes and trainers only.

The mistake most people make is to stop the hygiene regime, shoe rotation and/or medication once their symptoms have gone. Although symptoms may disappear after several days or weeks of treatment, the fungus can lie dormant and can eventually reappear if the environment is right. We advise that you continue with your treatment plan for an additional two weeks to ensure the root of the fungus is destroyed otherwise you risk the infection returning.