Why Do I Keep Getting Athlete’s Foot?

It’s a lesson we all know well in 2024: contagious conditions can spread. 

That doesn’t just apply to airborne illnesses. Take athlete’s foot as an example. Up to 15% of the population has this contagious foot issue. And since it spreads easily, simply taking a step in the wrong area can be enough to infect you.

That’s troublesome enough. But if you get athlete’s foot and can’t seem to clear it up, the situation becomes extra frustrating. 

We’re here to help. With a specialization in athlete’s foot, our team at Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute helps you find an effective treatment to banish this fungal infection. Beyond that, we work with you to develop a plan to prevent it from returning. 

If you’ve been dealing with persistent athlete’s foot, visit either of our offices in American Fork or Saratoga Springs, Utah. We target your athlete’s foot with options like antifungal medications. Then, avoid these three things to prevent this foot issue from resurfacing. 

#1: Continually damp feet

The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in damp environments. In other words, sweaty feet are your enemy. 

Start by washing your feet with soap morning and night. Dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Then, choose shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Sandals are a great option if they’re acceptable attire wherever you’re headed. If you need a closed-toed shoe, opt for a breathable pair. Plenty of shoemakers now offer modern dress shoes that breathe. 

Socks play an important role, too. Choose moisture-wicking varieties. 

If you’re prone to sweaty feet, stash an extra pair of socks in your glove compartment or office desk drawer. Whenever your feet feel damp, swap into a dry pair of socks. 

#2: Fungus thriving at home

Even if you clear the fungus from your feet, it will not do you any good if it’s still thriving in your home environment. Give all of your floors—especially in the bathroom—a thorough clean and let them dry fully. While you’re at it, launder all of your towels and bedding.

To ensure you and other housemates or family members don’t pass athlete’s foot back and forth, avoid sharing shoes, towels, and bedding. 

#3: Picking it up from public places

If you get recurring athlete’s foot, you could be picking it up at the same place. Damp environments like public pools and locker rooms are notorious for spreading this fungal infection.

If you think you know where you might have contracted athlete’s foot, start wearing shoes whenever you’re there. A simple flip-flop or slide keeps your foot away from the fungus that could be thriving on the ground. 

If you have athlete’s foot, putting a stop to it starts with targeted treatment. Then, you can do these three things to help prevent it from coming back. To treat your athlete’s foot, contact our team at the Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute by calling (801) 756-4200.