Athlete's Foot
(Tinea Pedis)

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection that primarily affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. It is one of the most common fungal infections, affecting athletes and non-athletes alike. At our Sunshine Coast clinic, we are experts in diagnosing and treating athlete’s foot, ensuring quick relief and long-term prevention.

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools. This fungal infection can affect the soles, the areas between the toes, and sometimes even the toenails. Although it is called athlete’s foot due to its prevalence among athletes, anyone exposed to these conditions is at risk.

How Athlete’s Foot Spreads

The fungus that causes athlete’s foot is highly contagious. It can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors, towels, shoes, and socks. Once the fungus finds a moist environment, it grows rapidly, leading to infection.

Common Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot typically starts as a scaly rash between the toes, but it can spread to other parts of the foot if left untreated. The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection, but common signs include:

Itching and burning: Often the first noticeable symptom, particularly after removing shoes and socks.
Red, scaly rash: This rash typically appears between the toes but may also spread to the soles of the feet.
Peeling or cracking skin: Especially between the toes or on the soles.
Blisters: Some cases may cause small blisters that can be painful or cause further irritation.
Dry, flaky skin: Athlete’s foot may also cause your skin to dry out and flake, resembling dry skin conditions.
Foul odor: The infection can sometimes cause a musty or unpleasant odor, particularly when combined with moisture and sweat.

If the infection spreads to the toenails, it can lead to onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), where nails become thick, discolored, and brittle. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent complications and the spread of the infection.

Risk Factors for Athlete’s Foot

Anyone can develop athlete’s foot, but certain factors increase your risk of contracting this fungal infection, such as:

Frequenting communal areas: Public pools, locker rooms, and showers are breeding grounds for fungal infections.
Sweaty feet: People with excessive sweating are more prone to athlete’s foot, as moisture provides the perfect environment for fungi to thrive.
Tight or poorly ventilated shoes: Wearing shoes that trap moisture, particularly tight-fitting footwear made of synthetic materials, increases the risk of infection.
Weakened immune system: People with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes or other chronic conditions, may be more susceptible to fungal infections.
Sharing personal items: Sharing towels, socks, or shoes with someone who has athlete’s foot can lead to direct transmission.

Complications of Untreated Athlete’s Foot

If left untreated, athlete’s foot can lead to more severe complications, including:

Secondary bacterial infections: The cracks in the skin caused by athlete’s foot can allow bacteria to enter, leading to more serious infections like cellulitis.
Fungal nail infection: As mentioned earlier, untreated athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails, making the condition harder to treat.
Chronic infection: Some people develop recurring cases of athlete’s foot, especially if the underlying risk factors are not addressed.

Athlete's Foot Treatment

At our Sunshine Coast podiatry clinic, we offer a range of effective treatments to tackle athlete’s foot and provide long-lasting relief. Our podiatrists will assess your condition, the severity of the infection, and any contributing factors before recommending a treatment plan. Common treatments include:

Topical Antifungal Medications

For mild to moderate cases of athlete’s foot, topical antifungal creams, ointments, powders, or sprays are typically prescribed. These medications work by killing the fungus and preventing its spread. We may recommend over-the-counter antifungal products or prescribe stronger, medicated treatments based on the severity of the infection.

Laser Therapy

For persistent cases of athlete’s foot that don’t respond to traditional treatments, laser therapy can be an effective option. Laser treatment targets the infected tissue without damaging the surrounding skin, promoting faster healing.

Oral Antifungal Medications

In more severe cases or when topical treatments do not resolve the infection, oral antifungal medications may be suggested. These medications work systemically to clear the infection from within and are typically prescribed for several weeks.

Management of Fungal Nail Infections

If athlete’s foot has spread to your toenails, we may also recommend treatments to manage fungal nail infections. These treatments may include topical medications, nail debridement and laser therapy.

Preventative Care and Advice

Preventing the recurrence of athlete’s foot is just as important as treating the infection. Our podiatrists provide detailed advice on how to avoid reinfection, including tips on proper foot hygiene, footwear, and lifestyle changes.

At our Sunshine Coast clinics, we are experts in the effective treatment of athlete’s foot and other foot-related conditions. Our experienced podiatrists provide personalised care, ensuring that your condition is treated thoroughly and that you receive advice on how to prevent future infections. Our state-of-the-art clinic is equipped with advanced technologies, such as laser therapy, to treat stubborn infections. Book online or call our friendly reception team on 07 5328 3588 to book an appointment.

Our Podiatrists

Our team of Sunshine Coast Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, warts and more.

They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes.

Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Benefits of a personalised treatment plan

Reduced Pain

Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.

Increased Strength

With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.

Become More Active

Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.

How it works

1. Schedule an Appointment

Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.

2. We Handle the Details

Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.

3. Be More Active With Less Pain

Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.

What you'll get...

Experienced Podiatrists

Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.

Comprehensive Consultations

Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.

Communication

Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.

Best Treatment Technology

We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care.