Athleteʹs Foot
Prevention and Treatment of Athleteʹs Foot
To help prevent athlete’s foot and provide optimal foot protection, IPFH suggests wearing properly selected and fitted, as part of an integrated approach, padded socks made of acrylic or acrylic blends that help wick moisture away from the foot, with shoes with non-slip outsoles and any inserts or orthotics prescribed or recommended by a doctor or foot health professional.
Properly designed and fitted shoes or boots have uppers made of mesh or another material that evacuates moisture while not allowing it in. If the shoe upper is made of leather, it should have vents or other openings that help evacuate moisture. Waterproof shoes do not evacuate moisture and may create a wet environment conducive to the growth of athlete’s foot fungus. Well-designed footwear also has few seams or raised areas that can cause pressure points or rub the skin, irritating feet that already have been affected by athlete’s foot.
Other steps to take:
Check your feet at least a few times a week, especially between the toes, to see if there are any indications of athlete’s foot. If you have diabetes, check your feet every day.
Try to avoid going barefooted, especially in public places.
Wash your feet well and dry them off after bathing, especially between the toes.
Athlete’s foot generally can be treated effectively with over-the-counter topical medications. Particularly difficult cases may require prescription medication from a foot specialist or a dermatologist.