Athlete’s Foot
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that typically affects the bottom of the feet and the spaces between the toes. It’s caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments—like sweaty socks and enclosed shoes.
While its name comes from its association with athletes, anyone can get it—especially those who walk barefoot in communal areas like swimming pools, gyms, locker rooms, and public showers. It’s highly contagious, easily spreading via skin flakes or fungal spores left on shared surfaces.
Causes of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi (commonly trichophyton) that feed on keratin in the skin. The ideal conditions for this fungus to thrive include:
Warm, damp environments (e.g. sweaty shoes or communal showers)
Tight, closed-in footwear that traps moisture
Poor foot hygiene or rarely changing socks
Excessive sweating of the feet
Walking barefoot in shared spaces (e.g. locker rooms, pool areas)
Once the fungus takes hold, it can be difficult to eliminate without the right treatment, often becoming chronic or recurring.
Who Is Most at Risk?
You may be more likely to develop Athlete’s foot if:
You wear tight or non-breathable shoes frequently
You sweat excessively, especially on your feet
You are over 65 years old
You have diabetes, weakened immunity or poor circulation
You walk barefoot in public showers or pools
You live in hot, humid climates like Malaysia
You have a history of fungal skin or nail infections
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can present differently depending on its type and severity. Common symptoms include:
Itching, burning, and stinging between the toes
Red, scaly, or peeling skin on the soles or sides of the feet
Cracks or fissures between the toes
Blistering or oozing in more severe cases
Unpleasant foot odour
Discoloured or thickened toenails if the infection spreads
If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of your foot, hands, nails, or other people.
Diagnosis
At KL Foot Specialist Podiatry, we start with a thorough visual and physical examination of your skin. Because symptoms can mimic other conditions like dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis, an accurate diagnosis is essential. If needed, we may perform a skin scraping or fungal culture to confirm the presence of fungus.
We’ll also evaluate whether your case is purely fungal, or if there’s also a secondary bacterial infection, which would change your treatment plan.
Treatment Options
We create a personalised treatment plan depending on the severity of your condition. This may include:
Antifungal Medication
Topical treatments (creams, sprays, powders)
Oral antifungal medication for more severe or persistent cases
Your podiatrist will advise you on the best formulation for your lifestyle, footwear habits and activity level
Foot Hygiene & Prevention
Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes
Use bamboo or moisture-wicking socks
Disinfect shoes regularly using antifungal sprays
Rotate shoes daily to allow them to air out
Avoid wearing the same pair of closed shoes two days in a row
Wear shower sandals or thongs in communal areas
Never share shoes, socks, or towels
Supportive Advice
We’ll give you practical guidance tailored to your lifestyle and environment to prevent recurrence, including footwear recommendations and foot hygiene tips.
Prevention Tips
Athlete’s foot is preventable with the right habits:
Dry your feet thoroughly after every wash—especially between your toes
Wear breathable shoes and change socks daily
Choose antifungal powders or sprays if you’re prone to sweating
Don’t walk barefoot in public places like locker rooms and gyms
Keep your toenails trimmed and clean
If you suspect an infection, act early before it spreads
Why Choose KL Foot Specialist Podiatry?
Expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans
Gentle and effective care for all skin types and age groups
Treatment options for chronic, recurring or stubborn infections
Education on prevention and hygiene for long-term results
Book Your Appointment Today
If you suspect you have Athlete’s foot or have ongoing discomfort between your toes or on your soles, don’t delay treatment. Our expert podiatrists at KL Foot Specialist Podiatry are here to help you find fast, lasting relief.
Click here to book your appointment or give us a call.