Although rare, foot fungus can affect even young children and infants, often appearing as dry, itchy, or peeling skin between the toes or on the soles. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty socks or closed shoes. In babies, damp feet from prolonged use of booties or footed pajamas can create similar conditions. Such an infection can also come from using unclean nail clippers to trim a child’s toenails. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection and recommend child-safe antifungal creams or sprays. Keeping the feet clean and dry, using clean nail cutting tools, changing socks frequently, and allowing feet to air out each day are important steps for recovery. For infants, using breathable fabrics and avoiding tight coverings helps prevent moisture buildup. Parents should avoid home remedies that could irritate delicate skin. Instead, if your infant or child has signs of a fungal infection on their feet, it is suggested that you take them to see a podiatrist for gentle, effective treatment, and to help stop the fungus from spreading or returning.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails and toenail fungus are common foot issues that can lead to pain and infection if not properly treated. Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often due to improper trimming, tight footwear, or injury. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes drainage or infection. Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is caused by fungal organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments. It often appears as thickened, discolored, brittle, or distorted nails that may emit an unpleasant odor. Both conditions can be uncomfortable and unsightly. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the problem through physical examination and, in the case of fungal infections, lab testing. Treatment options for ingrown nails may include trimming, lifting the nail edge, or partial nail removal. For toenail fungus, treatments can include topical or oral antifungal medications or nail debridement. To prevent worsening symptoms or complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one our of podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Fungal infections are a frequent problem for people with active lifestyles, and one of the most well-known is commonly called athlete’s foot. This condition often develops in warm, damp spaces such as gym locker rooms, community showers, or inside shoes that trap moisture. The infection usually begins between the toes and may cause itching, burning, redness, or peeling skin. In some cases, the problem can spread to the toenails, creating thickened or brittle nails that are harder to treat. Preventive steps include wearing breathable socks, rotating shoes to let them dry fully, and never walking barefoot in public facilities. Mild antifungal creams often bring relief, but stubborn or recurrent cases may require prescription medication. If you notice ongoing irritation or scaling on your feet that does not improve, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

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 our of podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 Houston and Deer Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.