What Is Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is an infection of the skin along the feet that can be caused by a variety of different fungi. Although tinea pedis can affect any portion of the foot, the infection most often affects the space between the toes. Athlete's foot is typically characterized by skin fissures or scales that can be red and itchy.

Tinea pedis is spread through contact with fungi in damp areas (for example, showers, locker rooms, swimming pools, or sweaty, confined shoes). Tinea pedis can be a chronic infection that recurs frequently if not treated properly. Treatment may include topical creams (applied to the affected surface of the skin) or oral medications. Airing out your shoes and feet and practicing basic foot hygiene is also key to preventing athlete's foot.

If you believe you may be dealing with athlete's foot, make an appointment with us today!

Author

Visoth Chan, DPM Dr. Visoth Chan is the owner and medical director of Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates. She graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Physiology and Neuroscience. Following this, she received her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at the California School of Podiatric Medicine in Oakland. She subsequently completed her podiatric surgical residency at White Memorial in Los Angeles. She takes great pride in her role at Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates and strives to make sure her patients have the best care possible. When not treating patients, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family, especially her daughter, Emmylou.