Athlete's Foot Management

Patient Education for Prevention and Management

The American Diabetes Association recommends washing feet daily with soap and water, and drying thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent athlete's foot 1
Patients should change socks at least once daily and avoid tight or knee-high socks to reduce the risk of athlete's foot 1
Avoiding barefoot walking indoors and outdoors can help prevent athlete's foot, according to the American College of Cardiology 2
Do not wear shoes without socks to prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of athlete's foot 2
Avoid tight shoes or shoes with rough edges and uneven seams to prevent irritation and athlete's foot 2
Inspect and palpate the inside of shoes daily to detect any potential irritants or sources of infection 2
Apply lubricating oils or creams for dry skin, but not between the toes, to prevent maceration and athlete's foot 2
Cut toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails and reduce the risk of athlete's foot 1
Do not use chemical agents or plasters to remove corns and calluses, as this can increase the risk of infection and athlete's foot 2
Seek professional care for corns and calluses rather than self-treating to prevent complications and athlete's foot 2

For severe or persistent cases of athlete's foot, prompt referral to a healthcare provider is recommended, according to the American Diabetes Association 1

If symptoms worsen or do not improve with over-the-counter treatment, seek medical attention, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology 1
For patients with diabetes or compromised immune systems, prompt medical attention is essential for any foot infection, according to the American Diabetes Association 3 and the American College of Cardiology 4
Patients with diabetes should receive more comprehensive foot education and regular professional foot examinations to prevent complications, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association 3
Those with peripheral neuropathy or vascular disease require special attention to prevent complications, according to the American College of Cardiology 4

Neglecting to dry between toes after bathing can increase the risk of athlete's foot, as noted by the American Diabetes Association 1
Using heating devices to warm feet can increase moisture and the risk of athlete's foot, according to the American College of Cardiology 2
Applying moisturizing creams between toes can increase maceration and the risk of athlete's foot, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology 2