When Does an Ingrown Toenail Require Professional Care?
Ingrown toenails are fairly common. Though painful, they usually aren’t serious cause for concern. However, there are exceptions. If you have an ingrown toenail, here’s when you need an expert.
How to Avoid Athlete’s Foot and Staph Infections
The importance of taking preventive measures against athlete's foot and staph infections cannot be overstated. Infections can cause discomfort, pain, and complications that may impact your daily life and overall well-being.
For athletes and other active individuals, taking care of your feet helps prevent infections and contributes to your overall comfort and mobility, allowing you to continue enjoying an active lifestyle.
Our team of podiatry experts at Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists, with offices in Bradenton, University Park, and Ellenton, Florida, is committed to helping you maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
At the same time, we strive to protect you from infections, such as athlete's foot, that can jeopardize your foot health. Public spaces, such as gym floors, showers, and saunas, can harbor bacteria, fungus, and other pathogens, making it essential to adopt habits to protect yourself.
Common infections and their causes
Athlete's foot and staph infections are among the most prevalent infections affecting athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Dermatophytes, a type of fungus, cause athlete's foot, while staphylococcus aureus bacteria cause staph infections. Some strains of staph infections are antibiotic-resistant, emphasizing the importance of prevention.
Protective footwear in public areas
To safeguard your feet from fungal and bacterial infections, it’s essential to adopt new habits and be aware of any changes in the appearance and feel of your feet. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.
Wearing flip-flops or shower sandals in locker rooms, bathrooms, public pools, and saunas can reduce the risk of infections by keeping your feet off public floors. These areas have high foot traffic and are conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi. Use a clean towel to stand on when changing clothes.
Post-workout hygiene practices
Showering after working out, wearing proper footwear, and washing your athletic gear can also help prevent infections. Ensure your feet are thoroughly dried, including between the toes, and change into clean, dry socks. Applying medicated powders on your feet and shoes can help keep infections at bay.
Clean and dry provides protection
Avoid sharing gear, towels, or bar soap with others, and carry alcohol wipes to clean public equipment before use. Washing your hands frequently and disinfecting gym equipment can further minimize the risk of infections.
Avoid sharing personal items
Seek professional evaluation if you notice any symptoms, such as cracked, itchy, or red and inflamed feet. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications, such as staph infections, from spreading throughout your body.
Early evaluation of symptoms
Maintaining good hygiene practices and being vigilant about changes in your feet are crucial for preventing infections and ensuring overall foot health. If you notice anything amiss with your feet, contact our offices for an evaluation and treatment.
Healthy feet are happy feet. Prioritize your health by taking good care of your feet. For all your foot care needs, call the nearest office to schedule a visit with a Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists provider.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Common Signs of Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Promo: Arthritis can affect any joint in your body, but it’s especially painful when it develops in the feet and ankles because they bear our weight. Keep reading to learn about common signs of arthritis and what you can do to manage your symptoms.
Common Foot Problems During Pregnancy and What You Can Do About Them
Pregnancy puts significant strain on your body, particularly your feet. Here are some of the most common foot problems women experience during pregnancy, and how to treat them.
How a Better Pair of Shoes Can Prevent Ankle Sprains
You’ve just recovered from a sprained ankle and you have no desire to repeat that unpleasant and inconvenient experience. In addition to strengthening your ankle through rehab and daily exercises and stretches, be sure to find the right shoes, too.
Does Toenail Fungus Resolve on Its Own?
The medical world hates to say “never” because everyone is different. So, there’s a slight chance it could, but most experts agree that toenail fungus probably won’t resolve on its own. Learn why that is and why you shouldn’t ignore fungal nails.
How Soon Can I Drive After Breaking My Foot?
Your broken foot slows you down when walking. But does that mean you have to take your foot off the pedal of your car, too? How can you get anywhere if you can’t walk or drive? Be patient. Your foot needs time to heal.