The importance of playing sports can’t be stressed enough. Not only is it great exercise, but it builds a sense of teamwork and community as well. Here in Surprise we have many opportunities for people of any age to take part in community sports. One thing you won’t want to share with others, however, is athlete’s foot. Make sure to protect yourself from this fungus that likes to lurk in the locker room.
Like all fungus, you can find tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) growing in places that are warm, dark, and damp. Prime locations may include public pools, locker rooms, and, scariest of all, the inside of your shoes! Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to avoid contracting Athlete’s Foot.
Preventing Athlete's Foot Tips
- Keep your feet clean and dry at all times. This means washing your feet every day and making sure they are completely dry before putting on shoes or socks. The more moisture in your shoes the greater the chance of a fungal breeding ground developing.
- Wear protective footwear. It’s a good idea to always have something on your feet to protect them from harm, but this goes double for when you are in a public place. When you shower at the gym, always wear flip-flops or shower shoes.
- Allow your shoes at least 24 full hours to dry out before wearing them again. If you sweat a lot. it might be a good idea to go even longer or include an anti-fungal powder in the drying process.
- Change your socks periodically throughout the day. Your feet sweat a lot during the day, especially if you are very active. Bring along an extra pair or two of socks that you can change into should the need arise.
Arizona Foot Specialists
Avoiding athlete’s foot doesn’t have to be a difficult thing to do. You shouldn’t constantly be living in fear of getting this fungal infection. However, it’s important to be cautious, and taking those few extra steps will become a habit. For more information about staying protected against athlete’s foot call Dr. Viedra Elison at (623) 584-5556 to schedule an appointment with us at Fixing Feet Institute in Surprise, AZ.
