Skin and Nail Concerns of the Foot

What You Need to Know

A closer look at the skin and nail conditions that commonly affect the feet.

Understanding Skin and Nail Concerns

The skin and nails of the feet are prone to a wide range of concerns, from fungal infections and rashes to ingrown toenails and skin growths. The foot is an ideal environment for microbes to latch on because it is a damp and moist space, especially the web between the toes. The softened tissues provide the perfect area for a fungus to penetrate.

Athlete’s foot is one of the most common issues we see. It typically develops between your toes and affects between 3 to 15 percent of the population at any given time. Signs include a scaly, red rash between your toes, blisters and ulcers, and dry or scaly skin on the soles and sides of your feet.

Toenails often serve as barometers of our health. Pitting and increased nail thickness can be manifestations of psoriasis, while nails that are rounded inward instead of outward can foretell iron deficiency. Other common problems include ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, and changes in nail shape or texture with age.

Skin disorders can occur due to infection, allergies, dry skin, stress, ill-fitting footwear, or time spent in unhygienic spaces like locker rooms and public pools. Symptoms include itching, inflammation, redness, swelling, pus, discoloration, and open sores.

If your symptoms persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by redness, drainage, fever, or swelling, it is time to see a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem and start you on the right treatment.

Treatment Options and Everyday Prevention

Treatment depends on the specific condition. For mild cases of athlete’s foot, an over-the-counter ointment or powder may be enough. If those have not worked, prescription-strength antifungal creams or oral medications may be necessary to combat more stubborn infections.

For ingrown toenails, a podiatrist can resect the ingrown portion of the nail and may prescribe topical or oral medication to treat any infection. If ingrown nails are a chronic problem, a procedure can be performed to permanently prevent them by removing the corner of the nail along with its matrix using a chemical, a laser, or other methods.

Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, are often ignored because the infection can be present for years without pain. The condition is characterized by a progressive change in the nail’s quality and color, often becoming darker, thicker, and foul smelling. If ignored, the infection can spread and make walking painful.

Good daily habits go a long way toward prevention. Wash your feet every day with mild soap and lukewarm water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes. Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks, and consider alternating between two pairs of shoes so each has time to dry out. Trim toenails straight across, and use shower sandals in public locker rooms and pool areas.

If home care is not enough, our providers can identify the underlying cause and recommend the treatment best suited to your condition so you can get lasting relief.