ATHLETE'S FOOT
What is Tinea Pedis?
Tinea pedis — commonly known as athlete’s foot — is a fungal infection that can affect the skin of the foot, especially the spaces between the toes and the soles. It is a common foot condition, but symptoms can overlap with other skin concerns. Provider review is important before any treatment pathway is recommended.
Tinea pedis is commonly associated with dermatophytes, although other fungal organisms may also be involved. These organisms can grow in warm, moist environments and may spread through shared surfaces, footwear, towels, or direct skin contact.
Tinea pedis and onychomycosis may occur together. Some patients with fungal nail concerns also have current or previous athlete’s foot. Provider review can help determine whether skin care, nail care, prescription treatment, supportive care, or another next step may be appropriate.
COMMON
A common fungal skin condition of the foot
SKIN-RELATED
Often affects the spaces between the toes or soles
MAY RECUR
Ongoing moisture and exposure can contribute to recurrence
Interdigital tinea pedis and moccasin-type presentation
TINEA PEDIS
Types & Symptoms
Tinea pedis may present in different patterns. Symptoms can vary, and similar skin changes may be caused by other conditions. Provider review helps determine the appropriate next step.
Interdigital
Often affects the spaces between the toes, especially between the fourth and fifth toes. Symptoms may include itching, burning, scaling, softened or irritated skin, cracking, and, in some cases, odor.
Moccasin-type
May affect the sole, heel, and sides of the foot in a “moccasin-like” pattern. Symptoms may include dryness, fine scaling, mild itching, or skin thickening. It may be mistaken for dry skin.
Vesicular (inflammatory)
May involve small fluid-filled blisters on the instep or sole. This pattern can be itchy, uncomfortable, or painful. If there is severe pain, drainage, spreading redness, warmth, fever, or signs of infection, in-person medical care may be needed.
Ulcerative
Less common. May involve erosions, open areas, or skin breakdown, often between the toes. This presentation may require in-person medical evaluation, especially in patients with diabetes, poor circulation, immune compromise, or signs of active infection.
TINEA PEDIS
Risk Factors & Prevention
HIGHER RISK IF YOU:
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Use communal showers, pools, or locker rooms.
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Wear tight, non-breathable footwear.
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Have hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
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Have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
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Have had tinea pedis before.
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Share towels or footwear with others.
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Walk barefoot in public areas.
PREVENTION TIPS:
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Wear sandals or flip-flops in communal wet areas.
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Dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
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Use breathable, moisture-wicking socks.
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Rotate shoes and allow them to fully dry between uses.
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Seek provider-guided care if athlete’s foot symptoms persist, recur, or worsen.
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If excessive sweating is a concern, consider speaking with a provider about appropriate options.
NOT SURE WHICH CONDITION YOU HAVE?
Start with eligibility. A provider review can help determine the appropriate next step.
Whether you suspect athlete’s foot, nail fungus, or both — or you are not sure what is causing your symptoms — a Florida-licensed podiatric provider within JAWS Podiatry may review your case and determine whether telemedicine care, prescription treatment, supportive care, or another next step may be appropriate.