Swimming Pools and Skin Conditions

The swimming pool is a fun place to visit during the warm summer months, but it’s also a place where the viruses and fungi that can cause foot problems thrive. The wet, humid conditions at most public swimming pools, coupled with many people walking around barefoot, are breeding grounds for tinea, the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. This condition is a skin infection characterized by rough, scaly, itchy, and peeling skin. Fungi at the pool can also infect the toenails, causing them to become thickened, crumbly, and discolored. Both of these infections can be treated with topical and oral antifungal medications. Foot warts are also commonly contracted poolside and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The warts are benign, fleshy growths of rough, grainy skin and are often painless. They can go away on their own given time, or they can be treated through various methods. The best way to prevent these infections is to maintain good foot hygiene, avoid sharing personal items like shoes, socks, and towels with others, and wear flip-flops or other shoes when frequenting public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. For more information, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Summer is the season for many foot and ankle issues. If you’re suffering from a foot or ankle problem, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Common Summer Foot Problems 

• Athlete’s foot

• Toenail fungus

• Plantar warts

• Foot and ankle injuries

• Bunions

• Hammertoes

• Heel pain

• Cracked heels 

• Sunburns

• Blisters

Prevention

• Wear supportive shoes and avoid flip-flops

• Maintain good foot hygiene

• Exfoliate and moisturize the heels

• Apply sunscreen to the feet and ankles

• Wear shoes in public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers 

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