Athlete’s Foot Treatment Doctor in Scottsdale, AZ

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we frequently diagnose and treat this condition, which is caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pool areas. Athlete’s foot most often begins between the toes but can also spread to the soles, sides of the feet, and toenails.
 
While mild cases of athlete’s foot can sometimes be managed with over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders, persistent or severe infections often require professional evaluation and prescription medications. Our expert podiatrists can recommend effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a faster and more complete recovery.
 
We also provide advice on prevention, including keeping your feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and choosing breathable footwear. Left untreated, Athlete’s foot can lead to complications such as bacterial infections or spread to other parts of the body, so early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
 
If you’re experiencing symptoms of athlete’s foot, don’t hesitate to contact Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians for expert care and effective relief. Schedule your appointment today to get back on your feet—comfortably and confidently.

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection we frequently diagnose and treat at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians PLLC. Typical symptoms include persistent itching—often starting between the toes—accompanied by redness and flaking of the skin. Patients may notice cracked skin or small blisters that sometimes leak fluid. In more advanced cases, the skin becomes very dry, scaly, and may produce a burning or stinging sensation. The infection can also spread to the soles or sides of the feet, resulting in thickened or discolored skin.
 
Without timely treatment, Athlete’s foot can progress to raw, open sores, increasing the risk of serious bacterial infections. Our podiatrists emphasize the importance of recognizing these symptoms early. If you notice any of these signs, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians. Our experienced team offers specialized care and personalized treatment plans to relieve symptoms quickly, prevent complications, and keep your feet healthy and comfortable.

The condition spreads primarily through direct contact with surfaces contaminated by the fungus, such as floors in communal showers, locker rooms, swimming pools, or gym changing areas—places that are especially common in Arizona’s active communities. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, increasing the risk of transmission in our local climate.
 
Athlete’s foot can also spread by sharing personal items like towels, shoes, or socks with someone who is infected. Touching the affected skin of another person and then touching your own feet can also transfer the fungus. Since the fungi can survive on surfaces and objects for extended periods, indirect transmission is also a significant concern.
 
The infection may spread to other areas of the body, especially if you scratch your feet and then touch another part of your skin. To prevent the spread of athlete’s foot, our specialists recommend maintaining proper foot hygiene, keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, and avoiding the sharing of personal footwear or towels.

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we often treat patients dealing with athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, a common fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet. Athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist environments, making the feet especially susceptible in Arizona’s hot climate or when wearing closed-toe shoes for extended periods.

The infection is caused by dermatophyte fungi, which can be contracted in several ways:

• Direct contact with an infected person
• Contact with contaminated surfaces, such as gym floors, locker rooms, communal showers, and shared towels or shoes
• Tight, non-breathable footwear that creates a warm, moist environment conducive to fungal growth
• Improper foot hygiene, including not drying feet thoroughly after bathing

People with small cuts, nail injuries, or compromised immune systems are at higher risk. Those with diabetes should be particularly vigilant, as they are more prone to complications from athlete’s foot, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

We emphasize the importance of proper foot hygiene to prevent and manage athlete’s foot:

• Keep feet clean and dry
• Change socks regularly
• Avoid sharing personal items like footwear and towels

If you experience symptoms such as itching, burning, scaling, or redness, don’t hesitate to seek professional care. Our experienced team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians is here to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to help resolve the infection and prevent future recurrences. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11390 E. Via Linda, Ste 102, Scottsdale, AZ 85259. We serve patients from Scottsdale AZ, Fountain Hills AZ, Paradise Valley AZ, Carefree AZ, Rio Verde AZ, and surrounding areas.