Athlete's Foot

About Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. It commonly spreads in public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. The infection can spread to other parts of the foot, toenails, and even the hands if left untreated.

Common Symptoms

• Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes
• Cracking and peeling skin on the feet
• Dry skin on the soles or sides of the feet
• Raw, red skin
• Blisters that itch and ooze
• Discoloured or thickened toenails (if spread to the nails)

Treatment & Prevention

Our chiropodists can diagnose athlete's foot and recommend appropriate antifungal treatments. We also provide guidance on prevention, including keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, changing socks regularly, and using antifungal powder. If the infection has spread to the nails, additional treatment may be recommended.

How Is Athlete’s Foot Treated?

Mild cases often respond to over-the-counter antifungal creams used consistently for 2–4 weeks — but many patients stop too soon and the infection returns. A chiropodist can confirm the diagnosis (several skin conditions mimic athlete’s foot), recommend professional-strength antifungal therapy, and treat complications such as painful fissures or secondary bacterial infection. If the fungus has spread to your toenails, combined treatment prevents the nails from continually reinfecting the skin.

When to See a Chiropodist

Book an assessment if the rash has not improved after two weeks of over-the-counter treatment, keeps returning, is spreading, or has caused cracked, weeping, or painful skin. People with diabetes should have any foot skin infection assessed promptly, as small breaks in the skin can lead to serious complications.