Athlete's foot is a very common skin condition -- many people will develop it at least once in their lives.  Athlete's foot is a form of fungus infection of the feet.  Athlete's foot should not be ignored.  It can be easily treated but it also can be very resistant to treatment.

The correct term for athlete's foot is tinea pedis.  The fungi that causes it are living germs that grow and multiply on all humans.  Some people may actually have the fungus on their skin, but unless conditions are suitable, athlete's foot will not develop.  It is moisture, sweating and lack of proper ventilation that present the perfect setting for athlete's foot to develop.

It is commonly believed that athlete's foot is highly contagious.  This is not true.  You cannot catch it from walking barefoot in a locker room for example.  Some ways to prevent athlete's foot are:
     1.     Wash you feet daily.
     2.     Dry your feet thoroughly, especially in between your toes.
     3.     Avoid tight footwear.
     4.     Wear sandals.  (I always put mine on as soon as I have finished walking!)
     5.     If possible, go barefoot at home.
     6.     Dust antifungal powder into your shoes (especially if your feet sweat excessively.)
     7.     Change socks daily or more frequently if they come damp.  (During the winter when I can't wear sandals I change socks and shoes after walking.)

By following these simple rules you might just avoid a skin condition that could interfere with putting your best "feet" forward.  However, if you do develop a serious case of athlete's foot be sure to consult a health care provider.

See you on the trails.

(Note:  Linda Goodman, RN, began volkssporting in 1985 and has been a member of the Texas Wanderers since 1994.  She is officially retired but continues to work part time as a nurse and is an active member of the club.)
 

If you have questions or wish to find out more about our club or about volkssports, please e-mail Bill Uttenweiler.