Do’s and Don’ts for Avoiding Foot Infections

What do athlete’s foot, fungal toenails and warts have in common? They all thrive in damp, warm settings and they are passed on by direct contact. At Texas Foot Specialists, we know that this is a podiatric condition that can largely be avoided by following a few easy do’s and don’ts.

Don’t: walk barefoot in public places. Gym locker rooms, health clubs, indoor pools, communal showers—these are all prime-time hangouts for viruses, fungi and bacteria. Wear shower shoes or flip-flops in these types of places to protect your feet from coming in contact with them.

Do: wash your feet every day with soap and warm water. This will go a long way to preventing infections. Be sure to dry your feet completely, paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes—a well-known starting point for athlete’s foot.

Do: choose socks that wick moisture away from your feet. Avoid socks and hose that are tight. These will increase the amount you perspire. If you feel your socks are damp, change them as soon as possible. If your feet tend to sweat excessively, keep an extra pair of socks with you to use as needed.

Don’t: borrow someone else’s nail clippers or emery board for your toenails. Avoid swapping shoes or using soap that has been used on someone else’s feet.

Do: apply an anti-fungal or talcum powder to your feet before putting your socks on to help ensure that feet stay dry.

Don’t: delay in getting a suspected foot infection checked out at our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) and Houston (713-664-6677) offices. This is particularly important if you have diabetes or another chronic disease that impedes your circulation and makes it difficult for wounds to heal. Our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller or Dr. Gregory Mangum will examine your feet and prescribe a topical and/or oral medication if a foot infection is found.