Causes of Athlete’s Foot

6th October 2017

Athlete’s foot, known medically as tinea pedis, is a common foot health problem that many people face. It is caused by a build-up of fungus that thrives in warm environments and in most cases attacks the area of skin between the toes. The condition can affect people of all ages, however, it is most frequently seen in athletes.

Common causes of athlete’s foot

There are a variety of causes of athlete’s foot. Some of the main reasons are:

• Wearing shoes and socks that make your feet sweat

As the bacteria that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm and damp environments, people that regularly wear shoes and socks that cause their feet to sweat are more inclined to develop the condition.

• Not drying your feet correctly

After having a shower or submerging your feet in water, it’s vital to ensure that you correctly dry your feet. Dry in between each of your toes with a soft towel and pat down any excess moisture. Similarly to people who have sweaty feet, making sure your feet are completely dry can prevent athlete’s foot.

• Visiting public places whilst barefoot

Athlete’s foot is contagious which means being barefoot in public places such as swimming baths and shared showers puts you at risk of catching the condition. Try to avoid having bare feet in public places when possible.

Diabetics and athlete’s foot

Diabetics are just as susceptible to the causes of athlete’s foot as people without diabetes, however, the condition can be extremely risky for individuals with diabetes. At times, athlete’s foot can create small cuts on the surface of the feet that then put diabetics at further risk of infection. If you have diabetes and believe you may be suffering with athlete’s foot, it’s vital that you attend a check up with a foot health professional. If left untreated, diabetic foot ulcers can occur.

Treatments for athlete’s foot

Although athlete’s foot can be easily treated, people suffering with the condition are often too embarrassed to receive treatment. Over-the-counter treatments are available for people with athlete’s foot but in severe cases, visiting a foot health professional is usually the best option. The doctor or foot care assistant will be able to recommend the treatments that are most suited to your needs.

Our services

Because there are several causes of athlete’s foot and as it is such a common foot condition, it’s important to attend regular foot health appointments with a medical professional.

Our expert team have over 30 years combined experience working in the foot and health care sector and we deliver exceptional foot health treatments to individuals of all ages and abilities. Each course of treatment is tailored to the needs of our clients and all our services can be carried out in our welcoming clinic or the comfort of your own home.

If you have any questions regarding other causes of athlete’s foot or if you are interested in booking a foot health appointment with one of our team, please feel free to contact us.

Call our office on 0333 3583838 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to book you an appointment or answer any of your questions.