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Foot TREATMENT in NYC
Athlete's foot
understanding
Athlete's foot
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection causing dryness and itching around the soles and between the toes.
To combat athlete’s foot, NYC podiatrist Dr. Stephanie Lubin and the team at Empire Podiatry can prescribe effective medication. Patients seeking treatment for athlete’s foot are welcome to visit our Midtown and Downtown Manhattan offices.
what causes athlete's foot
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection caused by microscopic organisms known as dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and feed on keratin—the protein found in hair, skin, and nails.
Similar to conditions like ringworm and jock itch, athlete’s foot develops in dark, damp areas. That’s why damp socks and the inside of shoes often provide an ideal environment for fungal growth, which can lead to infection.
What are complications caused by athlete’s foot?
If left untreated, athlete’s foot can cause complications. The skin may crack and develop blisters, making it more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections. These infections can increase discomfort and may require antibiotic treatment.
In some cases, patients may develop a hypersensitivity reaction to the fungal infection. This occurs when fungal antigens enter the systemic circulation following an initial episode of tinea pedis (athlete’s foot). This immune response, referred to as an “id reaction” or dermatophytid, can result in vesicular eruptions on the fingers or toes, distant from the primary site of infection.
Onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the nails, can arise independently or concurrently with tinea pedis, sometimes without preceding cutaneous symptoms. This highlights the clinical importance of early diagnosis and treatment of tinea pedis to prevent secondary complications.
WHAT SYMPTOMS DOES ATHLETE’S FOOT TREATMENT ADDRESS?
Effective treatment of athlete’s foot helps eliminate the fungal infection and its associated symptoms, allowing patients to restore comfort and quality of life. Symptoms can range in severity and may include:
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Dry, scaly, or cracked skin: Often appearing between the toes, the skin may become flaky, peel, or develop fissures.
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Rash: A red, inflamed rash may develop on the feet. Its appearance can vary depending on skin tone.
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Blisters: Small fluid-filled blisters may form in some cases and can be itchy or painful.
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Itching: A frequent and bothersome symptom, typically worse between the toes or after removing shoes and socks.
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Burning or stinging sensation: Affected areas may feel irritated or painful, particularly as the infection progresses.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms—especially if they are concentrated on the feet—it's best to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and to explore effective athlete’s foot treatment options.
THE INGROWN TOENAIL REMOVAL PROCEDURE
This outpatient procedure normally uses local anesthesia to numb the toe. In some cases, a patient experiencing anxiety may choose to receive light sedation. The entire procedure should take less than 15 minutes to perform, though this can vary depending on if there are multiple ingrown toenails present.
Ingrown toenail removal involves removing part of the nail, recutting the toenail into a straight edge, and treating the nail bed underneath. Specific procedures including the following common procedures:
Wedge Resection
This is the most common kind of ingrown toenail removal procedure, in which only the offending slant of the toenail is removed. This is also known as a slant-back procedure.
Toenail Removal
In this procedure, also known as nail plate avulsion, the doctor might end up removing the entire toenail due to severe infection. It can take several months up to a year for the toenail to grow back.
Matrixectomy
This surgery not only removes the offending nail border but also a small portion of the nail bed to prevent reoccurrence of the ingrown toenail.
Athlete's foot
FAQ
The best way to treat athlete’s foot is by keeping your feet clean and dry, and using an antifungal medication consistently. At Empire Podiatry, we offer a variety of evidence-based treatments to help clear the infection quickly and prevent it from coming back.
Yes, athlete’s foot is highly treatable, and most cases can be fully resolved with proper medication and consistent hygiene practices.
If your symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter treatments, it’s important to see a doctor who can recommend prescription options for effective care.
Wearing socks at night may help stop the fungus from spreading to other parts of your body or to those you share close contact with.
Expert Foot & Ankle Care Tailored to You
At Empire Podiatry, our mission is to deliver expert, integrity-driven foot and ankle care for every step you take—whether you’re an athlete in motion, a child growing into movement, or someone seeking relief from chronic pain.
We proudly care for patients of all ages and activity levels with compassion, respect, and a commitment to excellence. Our patient-first philosophy is supported by the latest advancements in podiatric technology, ensuring that each treatment is as effective, innovative, and individualized as possible.