Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. Despite its name, athlete’s foot can develop in anyone, not just athletes. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments and often spreads through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Athlete’s foot commonly affects the skin between the toes, but it can also appear on the soles, sides, or tops of the feet. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and cracking. In some cases, the affected skin may become dry, flaky, or painful, making everyday activities uncomfortable.

Because athlete’s foot is contagious, it can spread from one area of the foot to another or even to other parts of the body. If left untreated, the infection may worsen and increase the risk of secondary skin infections. Some people experience recurring athlete’s foot, especially if the underlying causes are not addressed. The condition can sometimes be mistaken for eczema, psoriasis, or other skin disorders, which is why an accurate diagnosis is important. Persistent foot itching, skin irritation, and changes in the appearance of the skin should not be ignored, particularly when symptoms continue to worsen or interfere with daily activities.

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who can diagnose and treat athlete’s foot and other foot skin conditions. During an evaluation, a podiatrist can determine whether symptoms are caused by a fungal infection or another condition requiring different treatment. Professional care may include prescription-strength antifungal medications and recommendations designed to help prevent the infection from returning. Early treatment can help reduce discomfort and limit the spread of the infection. If you are experiencing foot itching, peeling skin, redness, or persistent symptoms that may be related to athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are skin growths that appear on the bottom of the foot after exposure to certain viruses that enter through small breaks in the skin. They can affect people of all ages, but are seen more often in children, teenagers, and young adults. Shared environments like locker rooms, pool decks, and communal showers may increase exposure risk. People who sweat heavily, walk barefoot in public spaces, or have weakened immune defenses may also be more likely to develop them. These growths can appear as rough, thickened areas on weight-bearing parts of the foot and may become painful while walking or standing. Because they can resemble calluses or other skin conditions, proper diagnosis is important. Some resolve over time, while others persist or spread. If you have a painful skin lesion on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in soccer due to quick changes in direction, sudden stops, and contact with other players. This condition occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often from the foot rolling inward or outward. Symptoms usually include swelling, pain, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Some players may feel instability or weakness after the injury, especially if it is not fully healed. Ankle sprains can happen during a single misstep or develop from repeated stress over time. Without proper care, the joint may become more prone to future injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate ligament damage, assess joint stability, and create a plan to restore strength and function. If you have foot or ankle pain from playing soccer, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children can develop a range of foot conditions that affect how they walk and play. Flat feet occur when the arch does not form fully, causing the foot to roll inward and place stress on joints. In contrast, a rigid high-arch foot places excess pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, often leading to discomfort and poor shock absorption. These conditions may appear as uneven wear on shoes, frequent tripping, or complaints of foot pain after activity. They can develop due to genetics, growth patterns, or muscle imbalance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and movement, then design custom orthotics to support proper alignment and improve function. Early care can help prevent long-term issues with walking and posture. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and discuss the benefits of custom-made orthotics with you.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.