Researchers at the National Institutes of Health found an average of 50 species of fungi living on the feet of 10 healthy adults. These results were published in a May issue of Nature.

The scientists also swabbed the study participants in other parts of the body including the ear, back, and scalp. However, fungal communities were more diverse in the foot, than anywhere else in the body. In addition, the fungal assemblages living on the subjects feet fluctuated wildly, compared to other parts where they were more stable.    

If you do catch athlete’s foot, or are experiencing foot pain, burning, or tingling that you think might be caused by athlete’s foot, it is recommended that you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C.  Dr. Hyman can properly examine your feet and determine if the symptoms you might have are being caused by athlete’s foot.  

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

If you suffer from itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet, this may be a sign of athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious, and often infects shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, and anywhere else feet may come in contact with. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, locker rooms and public pools.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

- Hydrate feet with lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff nails
- Use anti-fungal product

What is Tinea?

- Athlete’s foot is often caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm (tinea).
- Tinea can invade other parts of the body as well.
- Tinea thrives in mostly dark, warm and moist environments.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

Read the Full Article on Athlete’s Foot.