Athlete's Foot

Despite its name, you don't need to be an athlete to develop athlete's foot. It can affect anyone and is one of the most common skin conditions we see at Masterton Foot Clinic.

What is athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot, also known as Tinea Pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes—fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments.

The infection commonly begins between the toes but may spread to the soles, sides of the feet, or, in some cases, the toenails.

Athlete's foot is considered a highly treatable condition. However, recurrence is common if the source of the infection is not fully addressed.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Itching between the toes.
• Peeling or flaky skin.
• Cracked or split skin.
• Redness or inflammation.
• Burning or stinging.
• Dry, scaly skin on the soles of the feet.
• Small blisters in some cases.
• Unpleasant odour.

Symptoms may affect one or both feet and can vary from mild irritation to painful cracking of the skin.

Causes

Athlete's foot develops when fungi grow on the skin.

Contributing factors include:

• Warm, sweaty feet.
• Wearing enclosed footwear for prolonged periods.
• Shared showers or changing rooms.
• Damp socks.
• Skin damage between the toes.
• A previous fungal nail infection.
• Diabetes or reduced immunity.

Because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, recurrence is common if footwear and socks remain contaminated or if a fungal nail infection is left untreated.

When should you see a podiatrist?

We recommend an assessment if:

• Symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatment.
• The infection keeps returning.
• Your skin is cracking or becoming painful.
• Your toenails have also become thickened or discoloured.
• You have diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation.
• You are unsure whether the problem is fungal or another skin condition.

Early assessment can help ensure the correct diagnosis and reduce the likelihood of ongoing or recurrent infection.

Why does athlete's foot keep coming back?

One of the most common frustrations is that athlete's foot appears to improve, only to return a few weeks or months later.

This often occurs because the source of the infection remains.

Fungi may survive in shoes, socks, or communal environments. In some people, the toenails also become infected and act as a reservoir, continually reintroducing fungal spores back onto the surrounding skin.

Successful treatment often involves addressing both the skin infection and any contributing factors that allow the fungus to persist.

How we treat athlete's foot

Treatment is tailored to the severity of your infection and any contributing factors.

Depending on your presentation, treatment may include:

• Confirmation of the diagnosis.
• Advice regarding topical antifungal treatments.
• Footwear and sock advice.
• Strategies to reduce moisture around the feet.
• Management of cracked skin.
• Assessment for associated fungal nail infection.
• Advice on reducing recurrence.
• Referral to your GP, where oral medication may be appropriate.

Our goal is not simply to clear the current infection but to reduce the likelihood of it returning.