Athlete's Foot in Parker,Colorado
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Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot-related health problems. In fact, about 70% of people will develop athlete’s foot at some point during their life. At Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine in Parker, Colorado, podiatrists Kevin Blue, DPM, FACFAS, Ryan Muchowski, DPM, and the team provide diagnoses and treatments for athlete’s foot. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today.
How Is Athlete's Foot Treated?
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) topical antifungal medications like clotrimazole and terbinafine, alongside proper foot hygiene, such as keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and using antifungal powders in shoes. For moderate cases, prescription-strength topicals or oral antifungals like terbinafine or fluconazole may be needed, sometimes combined with topical steroids for severe inflammation. Severe or recurrent infections might require extended oral antifungal treatment and regular medical follow-up. Preventive measures include avoiding walking barefoot in public areas and not sharing personal items. Immediate medical attention is crucial if the infection spreads, does not improve, or if complications arise, especially for individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems.
Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine Reviews
I got in quickly, started treatment, will have a followup. Easy ability to contact for information. My visit initiated with the doctor. In-office x-rays, specialization. All around foot care.
Everyone was great,Very professional. I was totally impressed with the DR.
I had a lot of pain at the back of my heel, and imaging showed that I had a partially torn Achilles and a bone spur behind the tendon. I went to an orthopedic surgeon (not at this practice) who told me I needed to learn how to deal with the pain because nothing could be done. I went to Dr. Blue for a second opinion and I'm glad that I did! Dr. Blue took the time to actually listen to me. I never felt rushed during my appointments with him. Unfortunately I needed surgery to fix the problems, but now, three months later, I'm feeling so much better! His office staff is also great and very friendly. Altogether a wonderful experience and I highly recommend Dr. Blue.
Dr. Muchowski was fantastic with removing my kiddos ingrown toenail. Office staff is super friendly as well!
Everyone was very professional Dr very kind
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About UsAthlete's Foot FAQs
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on top of the feet and between the toe. Trichophyton is the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. It’s highly contagious and usually found on floors and in clothing.
Most of the time, athlete’s foot responds to treatment with over-the-counter ointments and lotions. However, if you have a weakened immune system or diabetes, you’re more likely to experience severe complications. As a result, it’s important to seek professional medical help.
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot causes the skin between your toes to become irritated and itchy. As the fungal infection progresses, your skin may also become:
• Dry
• Flaky
• Red
• Scaly
• Cracking
As your skin cracks, you might also notice oozing pus or the formation of blisters.
If your athlete’s foot is severe, you’re also at risk of developing a bacterial infection. A bacterial infection can spread from toe to toe, increasing your risk of more serious complications.
Is there any way to prevent athlete’s foot?
If you want to lower your risk of athlete’s foot, it’s important to keep your feet, shoes, and socks dry at all times.
Recommendations:
Washing your feet twice each day
• Removing your shoes immediately after exercise
• Wearing loose-fitting, well-ventilated shoes
• Washing your sheets and towels regularly
If you spend time at public pools or inside locker rooms, you should also make sure to wear sandals or another type of footwear at all times. This prevents direct contact with the fungus that causes athlete’s foot.
How is athlete’s foot diagnosed?
To diagnose athlete’s foot, your provider carefully observes your feet and toes, looking for signs of redness, cracked skin, or general irritation. They also order laboratory tests to rule out other conditions that present similar symptoms like psoriasis or a skin infection.
Lastly, your physician conducts a test called skin lesion potassium hydroxide. They scrape a sample of infected skin from between your toes and places it in potassium hydroxide. This solution destroys human tissue cells but leaves fungal cells intact. You provider looks at your sample under a microscope to determine if you have athlete’s foot.
How is athlete’s foot treated?
If you have a mild case of athlete’s foot, your physician might recommend treatment with an over-the-counter ointment or lotion. More serious cases may require prescription medications. Depending on your symptoms, your provider might recommend an antifungal spray, powder, cream, or liquid.
If your athlete’s foot doesn’t respond to topical medications, you might benefit from an oral antifungal medication. There are several types of oral antifungals, including griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine.
To explore your treatment options for athlete’s foot, schedule an appointment at Colorado Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine. Call the office to speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online today.