Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)

The signs and symptoms of Tinea Pedis can vary from person to person but commonly include:

• Itching, Stinging, or Burning: Often most intense between the toes or on the soles of the feet.
• Redness and Scaling: The affected skin may appear red, dry, and flaky.
• Cracking and Peeling Skin: Particularly common between the toes.
• Blisters: Small blisters may form, sometimes filled with fluid.
• Thickened Skin: Chronic infections can lead to thickened, dry skin on the soles and sides of the feet (moccasin-type infection).
• Unpleasant Odour: Bacterial co-infection can sometimes lead to foot odour.

Symptoms can affect one or both feet. If you suspect you have Athlete’s Foot, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent, seeking professional advice is recommended.

Tinea Pedis is caused by fungi that commonly live harmlessly on human skin but can multiply rapidly under favourable conditions. Key factors contributing to infection include:

• Exposure to Fungi: Direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces like floors in communal showers, locker rooms, and swimming pool areas.
• Warm, Moist Environments: Fungi thrive in dampness. Sweaty feet confined in tight, non-breathable shoes create an ideal breeding ground.
• Poor Foot Hygiene: Not washing and drying feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immunity may be more susceptible.
• Minor Skin Injuries: Small cuts or abrasions on the feet can allow fungi to enter.

Sharing Items: Using contaminated towels, socks, or shoes can spread the infection.

• Spread of Infection: The fungus can spread to other parts of the body, including the toenails (onychomycosis), hands (tinea manuum), or groin (jock itch).
• Secondary Bacterial Infection: Cracks and blisters in the skin can allow bacteria to enter, leading to cellulitis (a potentially serious skin infection) requiring antibiotic treatment.
• Allergic Reaction: Some people may develop blisters on other areas of the body (like hands) as an allergic response to the fungus.
• Chronic Infection: Difficulty in completely eradicating the fungus can lead to persistent or recurring symptoms.

At Fine Podiatry Clinic, diagnosing Tinea Pedis typically involves a thorough clinical examination. Your podiatrist will:

• Assess Symptoms: Discuss the nature, location, and duration of your symptoms (itching, burning, scaling, etc.).
• Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the skin on your feet, looking for the characteristic signs of fungal infection like redness, scaling, peeling, or blisters, particularly between the toes and on the soles.

This clinical assessment allows our experienced podiatrists to accurately identify Tinea Pedis and differentiate it from other skin conditions, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care pathway.

Treatment for Tinea Pedis at Fine Podiatry Clinic focuses on effectively eliminating the fungal infection, relieving symptoms, and preventing recurrence using a combination of in-clinic procedures and guided home care.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Our approach typically involves:

• Specialised In-Clinic Treatment: We initiate treatment with a specialised procedure performed directly in the clinic. This professional-grade procedure is designed to kickstart the healing process, reduce the fungal load significantly, and prepare the skin for subsequent home treatment.
• Topical Antifungal Medications (Home Care): Following the in-clinic treatment, you will be prescribed potent topical antifungal medications (creams, lotions, or sprays) for self-application at home. Consistent use as directed by your podiatrist is crucial to fully eradicate the fungus and prevent its return.
• Foot Hygiene Guidance: We provide essential advice on maintaining optimal foot hygiene (keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks, appropriate footwear) to support the treatment process and minimise the risk of reinfection.

Relying solely on over-the-counter products may not be sufficient for persistent infections. Our combined approach of intensive in-clinic treatment followed by effective home care offers a comprehensive solution.

Struggling with itchy, uncomfortable feet? Book a Consultation at Fine Podiatry Clinic to discuss our specialised Tinea Pedis treatment protocol.

Preventing Tinea Pedis involves reducing exposure to fungi and keeping feet dry:

• Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash feet daily and dry thoroughly, paying special attention to the spaces between toes.
• Change Socks Regularly: Change socks at least once daily, or more often if your feet sweat heavily. Choose moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic blends over cotton.
• Wear Breathable Footwear: Opt for shoes made of natural materials or with good ventilation. Alternate shoes daily to allow them to dry out completely.
• Protect Feet in Public Areas: Wear waterproof sandals or shower shoes in communal showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools.
• Don’t Share Personal Items: Avoid sharing towels, socks, shoes, or foot-care tools.
• Use Antifungal Powder: If prone to sweaty feet or recurrent infections, consider using an antifungal powder daily as advised by your podiatrist.