Steven Holzman, a builder from Bracknell woke up one morning to find his foot swollen with a severe case of necrotizing fasciitis. Holzman was rushed to the hospital where he has three operations in four days. Holsman states, “I’m lucky to still be alive,” after potentially losing his leg to a “flesh-eating bacteria” after developing athlete's foot. Doctors believe Holzman contracted the bacterial infection as a complication due to an athlete’s foot condition. Because of open skin, a small cut between his toes and working under wet conditions allowed the bacteria to enter his body. “I’m very lucky to survive it, but I’m even more lucky that I’ve still got my leg,” said Holzman.

If you do catch athlete’s foot, or are experiencing foot pain, burning, or tingling that you think might be caused by athlete’s foot, it is recommended that you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Bryant Tarr of Sudbury & Westford Podiatry.  Dr. Tarr can properly examine your feet and determine if the symptoms you might have are being caused by athlete’s foot.  

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

If you suffer from itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet, this may be a sign of athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious, and often infects shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, and anywhere else feet may come in contact with. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, locker rooms and public pools.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate feet with lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff nails
- Use anti-fungal product

What is Tinea?
- Athlete’s foot is often caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm (tinea).
- Tinea can invade other parts of the body as well.
- Tinea thrives in mostly dark, warm and moist environments.

To learn more about tinea, visit our link below.

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

Read the Full Article on Athlete’s Foot.