Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Sacramento, CA
Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a contagious fungal infection that typically begins between the toes. It causes itching, stinging, and burning that can make daily life uncomfortable. Dennis Grandy, DPM provides effective treatment to clear the infection and help keep it from coming back. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule your visit.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
The fungi that cause athlete’s foot thrive in warm, moist environments. A common cause is sweaty feet confined in tight shoes for long periods of time. The infection spreads easily in places such as locker rooms, gym showers, and pool decks, and through shared towels, socks, or shoes.
Signs and Symptoms
- A scaly, red rash, usually between the toes
- Itching, stinging, and burning
- Cracked, peeling, or dry skin on the soles or sides of the feet
- Blisters in more severe cases
Athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails, causing fungal toenails, and cracked skin can allow bacteria to enter and cause a more serious infection.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment
Athlete’s foot can often be treated with antifungal medications, but the infection is likely to recur without proper care. When over-the-counter products do not work, prescription topical or oral medications are available. Dr. Grandy will confirm the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that best fits the severity of your infection. Patients with diabetes should have any skin infection evaluated promptly as part of their diabetic foot care.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot
Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Wear moisture-wicking socks and change them when they get damp, rotate your shoes so they can dry, and wear sandals in public showers and locker rooms. Active patients can learn more about protecting their feet through our sports medicine care.
Athlete’s Foot FAQs
What causes athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi that grow in warm, damp environments like sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public showers.
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Yes. It spreads through direct contact and by sharing towels, socks, shoes, or walking barefoot in shared wet areas.
How is athlete’s foot treated?
Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medications. A podiatrist can prescribe stronger options when over-the-counter products do not work.
Why does my athlete’s foot keep coming back?
Recurrence is common if feet stay damp or shoes harbor fungus. Consistent treatment and prevention habits help keep it away.
Can athlete’s foot spread to my toenails?
Yes. The infection can spread to the nails and cause fungal toenails.
How can I prevent athlete’s foot?
Keep feet dry, wear breathable socks, rotate shoes, and wear sandals in public showers and pool areas.
When should I see a podiatrist for athlete’s foot?
See a podiatrist if symptoms do not improve with over-the-counter treatment, if the infection spreads, or if you have diabetes.
Clear Up Athlete’s Foot for Good
Get effective treatment for itchy, burning feet. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule an appointment with Dennis Grandy, DPM.