We’ve all seen the comical commercials depicting Athlete’s Foot as a crazy cartoon character jumping on a pair of bare feet, causing the feet to burn and itch. But when Athlete’s Foot is actually happening, it is really not funny at all. In fact, the ailment can be downright painful and unbearable.

That is why the Philadelphia podiatrists at Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates want to teach people about Athlete’s Foot prevention, so that they can avoid having to experience the pain, itching and burning associated with the fungal infection. The doctors have compiled a list of the three top ways to prevent Athlete’s Foot. They are:

  • Never, ever walk barefoot in the locker room. The fungus that causes Athlete’s Foot breeds in warm, damp places, much like a locker room’s environment. The moment you remove your gym shoes after a workout, slip on a pair of flip-flops and use them while you shower, dry off, or use the restroom. 
     
  • Change your socks frequently. For example, if you are putting in a long day at the office and then heading out for dinner meetings after, chances are you are wearing the same pair of hot, sweaty socks for upwards of 12 or 14 hours. Grab a couple extra pair of socks and throw them in your desk at work, and change them at lunch and again before you head out for the evening. This will keep your feet cool and dry, and less likely to give Athlete’s Foot fungus a place to grow. 
     
  • Do not share items with a loved one who has Athlete’s Foot. Since the fungus that causes Athlete’s Foot can even grow in bedding and floor mats, ask your family member to wear a new, clean pair of flip-flops in the shower, slippers around the house, and socks to bed until their Athlete’s Foot is gone, to decrease the chance that someone else in the house contracts it. These may seem like extreme measures, but they will be worth it once the fungus is completely killed off. 

Want more tips on how to keep your feet healthy and free from Athlete’s Foot? Contact Pennsylvania’s premier podiatrists at Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates at 610-565-3668 to schedule an appointment.