There’s a reason why they call it “athlete’s foot.” While this issue can affect anyone, it’s especially common in athletes. And nothing creates a better environment for athlete’s foot to thrive than winter sports gear.
This condition is a highly contagious fungal infection that loves warm, dark, moist environments, like boots. It can cause a red, scaly rash on the foot and spread to other areas, like the toenails, hands, and groin (jock itch). In some cases, athlete’s foot can even lead to bacterial infections.
Our Advanced Care Foot and Ankle team in Corona and Ontario, California, knows that healthy feet provide a stable base for your entire body. Seemingly minor issues like athlete’s foot can slow you down so you need the best strategies to keep your feet in peak condition.
Do you love playing winter sports? Here’s how you can avoid this fungal infection during cold weather activities.
As mentioned above, anyone can get this type of fungal infection. However, there’s a reason why it’s so common among athletes. And knowing why is your first line of defense.
To start, the fungus that causes this condition lives everywhere. However, it loves damp, warm, dark environments like public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pool areas where athletes gather.
But there’s another reason it’s so common among athletes: foot gear.
Most shoes create a dark, warm environment for your feet. But physical activity can heat things even more, creating the perfect humid, sweaty space for fungi to grow, especially when geared up against cold weather.
Fortunately, this knowledge can help you avoid problems when playing your favorite winter sports.
Now that you know where athlete’s foot thrives, it’s time to stop it in its tracks. Don’t worry; we know there’s no way you can keep your feet from sweating in your boots or skates.
Instead, there are other steps you can take. We recommend you:
It’s also crucial to take action immediately if you notice the signs of fungal infection.
Like many infections, athlete’s foot is often easier to treat in its earliest stages. But you should also take steps to prevent its spread to other people.
If you’re at risk of athlete’s foot, our team recommends checking your feet regularly for signs of a problem, such as:
When these symptoms arise, try an over-the-counter antifungal treatment and the preventive steps outlined above to find relief.
If you have conditions that compromise your foot health, severe symptoms, or symptoms that don’t improve within two weeks, you should see an expert. Stubborn or advanced infections often require prescription-strength antifungal medications.
Do you have athlete’s foot? The Advanced Care Foot and Ankle can help. Contact our skilled team by phone or online to schedule a consultation in Corona or Ontario, California, today.