Ankle sprains are common, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need professional care. In some cases, a cast is an important part of your treatment. Here’s what to expect when you have an ankle sprain.
Athletes foot is a common fungal infection caused by growth of the tinea fungus on your foot. This fungus is especially prevalent in moist, warm environments. It often feels like you have an itch that you just can’t scratch beneath the surface of your skin. While it can be embarrassing, it’s easy to treat, and even easier to prevent.
Approximately 3-15% of the population is affected by athlete’s foot. While you don’t have to be an athlete to contract it, it remains largely an issue in athletic places, such as gym locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. It’s also been reported in many nail salons. To get athlete’s foot, all you have to do is let your tootsies come in contact with the fungus.
Symptoms of athlete's foot include red, cracked, and flaky skin that’s very itchy. The skin may also appear swollen. It’s most commonly seen in between the fourth and fifth toe.
While men and women can most certainly get it, the fungus is most often diagnosed in males and older adults.
The best way to prevent athlete’s foot is to keep your feet dry and away from any surfaces that may be contaminated. Try these preventive strategies:
Yes. You may have a genetic predisposition to it, feet that can be particularly sweaty, a weakened immune system, or poor circulation in your feet and legs from diabetes. All of those things can make athlete’s foot easier to pick up. People with diabetes need to be especially careful since healing of skin on their feet can often be delayed.
Successful treatment for athlete’s foot usually involves topical medications -- creams and sprays -- that contain a fungus-killing ingredient. It’s best to treat athlete’s foot quickly, so it doesn’t spread, especially if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
While athlete’s foot usually doesn’t cause any serious problems, it’s a fungal infection that will not go away on its own. Leaving it untreated can cause the fungus to spread to your toenails.
If you think you have athlete’s foot, it’s best to get professional treatment. Our experienced podiatrists at Go Feet can effectively nix your athlete’s foot, and get your feet feeling their best again. Simply click the “book online” button or call one of our offices in Mays Landing or Hammonton, New Jersey.
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