Infections - Fungal
Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot)
Athlete's foot
Very common, especially in adults
Yes — via damp floors, shoes, and towels
Yes — with antifungal treatment
What Is It?
Tinea pedis, or athlete's foot, is a fungal infection of the feet. It commonly causes itching, scaling, and cracking between the toes, and can spread to the soles and sides of the feet. It thrives in warm, damp shoes and spreads on wet floors.
Signs & Symptoms
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Itching, scaling, or cracking between the toes
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Peeling, redness, or a moccasin-like scale on the soles
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Burning or stinging, sometimes small blisters
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Odor and dampness in the affected areas
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May spread to toenails (thick, discolored nails)
Why Does It Happen?
It's caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments — sweaty shoes, damp socks, and communal showers or pool decks. Walking barefoot in these areas, and keeping feet damp, makes infection more likely. It can spread to the groin (jock itch) and nails. It is NOT a hygiene failure.
Treatment Options
Antifungal creams clear most cases, but keeping feet dry and decontaminating footwear are essential to prevent return. Treat any nail or groin involvement too.
ANTIFUNGAL CREAMS
Terbinafine, clotrimazole, or similar for 2–4 weeks.
KEEP FEET DRY
Drying powders, moisture-wicking socks, and airing shoes out.
ORAL ANTIFUNGALS
For stubborn cases or when nails are involved.
FOOTWEAR CARE
Rotate and disinfect shoes; don't go barefoot in shared areas.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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FOMITES: wash socks & towels in hot water (≥50°C); disinfect or spray shoes with antifungal
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Wear shower sandals in locker rooms, pools, and shared showers
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Dry between the toes fully; alternate shoes to let them dry out
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Don't share towels, socks, or footwear
When to Call Your Provider
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No improvement after 2–4 weeks of treatment
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Cracks become painful, red, swollen, or ooze (infection)
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Toenails become thick or discolored
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You have diabetes or poor circulation and notice foot changes
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Ringworm: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/ringworm-overview
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Ringworm. https://www.cdc.gov/ringworm/about/index.html
DermNet. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/tinea-pedis
MSD/Merck Manual. Tinea Pedis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/tinea-pedis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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