Foot injuries are common among athletes. They, more than any other group, are seen the most often by podiatrists. Athletes of all sports are in danger of foot injuries due to repeated side-to-side motions, running, jumping, and a high degree of competition, strength, and endurance. Here's more about the issues and conditions athletes of all ages and levels of competition face and how to keep the feet healthy.

Some Common Issues Athletes Experience

Blisters, athlete's foot, heel pain, abrasions, ingrown nails, and other such conditions are frequent among athletes. A blister, for example, is a small pocket of fluid that causes a bump in the top layer of the skin, typically caused by friction between the toes of the shoes.

On the other hand, athlete's foot is a fungus that commonly appears between the toes. It is usually transmitted in damp environments where individuals walk barefoot, including in showers or locker rooms. Athletes can use a variety of over-the-counter drugs to treat this condition.

Finally, an ingrown nail arises when the toenail's growth curves downward into and under the skin, most commonly in the big toe. This is frequently caused by incorrect nail trimming or by wearing excessively tight shoes.

How to Keep Feet Healthy

Like any other area of the body, healthy feet begin with proper cleanliness. Clean your feet thoroughly with soap and water while bathing. After bathing, make sure they are completely dry, particularly between each toe, as germs thrive in moist environments. Take the time to examine your feet once a week after drying them.

Look for scaling or peeling between your toes and around your soles, which is a sign of athlete's foot. Cuts, blisters, scrapes, redness, and swelling should all be looked for because early detection of these problems can prevent major repercussions. Finally, it's critical to have your feet examined regularly by a foot doctor. If you have any aches, pains, symptoms, or questions about the health of your feet, see a podiatrist. Your podiatrist can then determine or diagnose any issues and recommend how frequently you should see a doctor for your feet.

See a podiatrist if you've noticed an issue with your feet or already suffer from a foot condition. Serving St. Charles and St. Louis counties, MO, St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM, LLC, offers various foot services, including for sprained ankles, fractures, bunions, and foot pain linked to diabetic complications. Operating since 1997, they are attentive to patients, calling before appointments to clarify any questions and working with patients' schedules. Call (636) 720-0190 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information.