Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis to your foot doctor, is a fungal infection that typically begins in-between the toes. The common signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot include a red, scaly rash that can cause burning, itching, and stinging. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be spread from contaminated floors, towels, or clothing. Also, it is exacerbated by tight fitting shoes and increased moisture or sweating of your foot.

When you see one of the foot doctors at Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa for athlete’s foot, they will perform a foot exam. Typically, athlete’s foot can be diagnosed by your foot and ankle doctor by visual examination. On occasion, a skin scraping of the affected skin of the foot is needed to be sent to lab and verify the diagnosis. Following the examination, your foot doctor will discuss treatment options with you. These may include topical treatments, compounded medications, or possibly oral antifungal medications if the infection is severe.