Preventing Athlete’s Foot
Do you use public pools, gyms, and showers? Have a favorite nail salon you like to go to every so often? These environments are among some of the most popular places people like to spend their time, but they can also put you at a higher risk of developing foot fungus. Athlete’s foot doesn’t just occur in athletes and it’s one of the top foot conditions you can have. Those with athlete’s foot experience itchy feet and peeling, cracking skin and may have trouble getting rid of it. So, how can you enjoy your leisure time while steering clear of athlete’s foot? Practice some of these daily habits to kick athlete’s foot to the curb and maintain healthy, fungus-free feet!
Wash your feet with lukewarm water and mild soap every single day. Make sure you get in between your toes and dry completely after.
Remove your sneakers after a sweaty exercise and allow your feet and shoes to air out before putting them back on
Have extra sweaty feet? Try antifungal powders, which can help with your sweat, smell, and prevents fungus
Change your socks every day.
Wash your towels frequently in hot water to kill germs.
Avoid sharing your socks, shoes, and towels with others, even if they say they don’t have athlete’s foot.
Try to limit your exposure to public pools, showers, and gyms, but if you can’t, make sure you wear sneakers, shower shoes, or sandals while you’re there.
Find socks and shoes made of breathable materials.
Daily Epsom salts can not only help to de-stress but helps with sweaty, smelly feet and prevent foot fungus.
Keep an extra pair of shoes or socks with you throughout the day and alternate as needed.
Here at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we specialize in custom orthotics, along with various other foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.