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This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about health issues that affect men. Gyms, locker rooms and dirty sweat socks are a part of life for many men, whether they’re competitive athletes, weekend warriors or just trying to stay in shape. Athlete’s foot often comes with the territory.
Dr. Michael VanPelt, an orthopaedic surgeon and foot expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says the fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist environments such as showers, locker rooms, gyms and poolsides. You can prevent athlete’s foot by washing your feet with soap and water and drying them thoroughly. Change your socks frequently, especially if you get sweaty, and buy a second pair of athletic shoes so you can alternate pairs and avoid moisture build-up from daily wear. Try to avoid going barefoot in locker rooms. If you get athlete’s foot, treat it with over-the-counter anti-fungal medications, but if it doesn’t go away after two weeks of treatment, see a doctor.
Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/orthopedics to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in orthopedics.
