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Pediatric Foot Care

Athlete's Foot

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for athlete's foot, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Pediatric Foot Care

Understanding athlete's foot and your options.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It often starts between the toes and can spread to the sole or sides of the foot. The fungus grows best in warm, damp places.

It is common in teens, active people, and anyone whose feet stay sweaty. You may notice itching, peeling, or red skin. Treating it early keeps it from spreading to the nails or other people.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Athlete's Foot care

Symptoms

Signs of athlete's foot.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Itchy, burning skin between the toes

  • 02

    Peeling or cracked skin that looks white and soft

  • 03

    Dry, scaly skin along the sole and sides

  • 04

    Small blisters that may leak fluid

Why it happens

What can cause athlete's foot.

  • 01

    Sweaty feet in closed shoes

  • 02

    Damp socks worn for long periods

  • 03

    Walking barefoot in locker rooms or pools

  • 04

    Sharing towels, mats, or shoes

Care groupPediatric Foot Care

Diagnosis and care

How we treat athlete's foot.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We look at the pattern of the rash and ask how long you have had it. Other skin problems can look similar, such as eczema or contact rashes. If needed, we can gently scrape a small sample of skin to check for fungus.

Step 2 · Treatment

Antifungal creams or sprays are the main treatment, and stronger options may be prescribed when needed. Keep feet dry, change socks often, and let shoes air out between wears. Wear sandals in public showers. Finish the full treatment plan, even after the itching stops, so the fungus does not return.

Surgery is not part of treating athlete's foot. Treatment focuses on medicine and keeping the skin dry.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Many people feel better within a couple of weeks, but the skin may need longer to fully heal. It can come back if damp habits continue.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if the rash lasts more than a couple of weeks or keeps coming back. Come in promptly if you see redness, swelling, or pus, or if you have diabetes.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Pediatric Foot Care.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Can athlete's foot spread to my toenails?

Yes, the fungus can move into the nails over time. Treating the skin early lowers that risk.

Should I throw away my old shoes?

Not always. Airing them out, using antifungal powder, and washing socks in hot water can help.

Get help with athlete's foot.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Athlete's Foot care at 15 clinics.

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