Athlete’s foot occurs when you encounter the same fungus that causes infections like jock itch and ringworm. The perfect environment for the fungus to thrive includes warmth, humid air, moist surfaces, dead air, and less light. That’s why they are usually to be found in places like pools and pool decks, saunas, communal shower areas, your own bathroom surfaces, and your shoes.
The infection can be spread from direct contact with a person who has it, but seems more often to happen when you walk where they walked or share towels, shoes, socks, or pedicure implements with them. If they touch their feet and then another part of their body, the fungus can spread to those new places, too.
As you can see, there are many different ways to pick up this infection. Do what you can to prevent it by practicing good hygiene, wearing foot protection in public places, and keeping your feet as dry as possible—especially between your toes where it often starts. If you do get it, call the west Denver podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle Center by dialing (303) 423-2520 and we’ll help you fight it.
