If your feet seem itchy all the time, and especially during the cold winter months, you are not alone. The skin on our feet, more so than many other places on our body, is subject to a number of conditions that cause itchiness. On any given day, our feet experience significant temperature extremes – from hot water in the shower to cold toes inside of boots – numerous sock fabrics and diverse footwear that are compounded by the weight of your own body. This all adds up to skin dryness and irritation.
Some of the most common causes of itchy feet include:
- FUNGAL INFECTIONS SUCH AS ATHLETE’S FOOT: This occurs on the soles of the feet or between the toes, presenting as a red, inflamed rash with blisters. When the blisters are scratched open greater irritation is experienced.
- ECZEMA: Eczema can be present on any part of the foot, showing as small, circular areas of scaly skin or as larger lesions. This condition can be common in individuals with a history of allergy or asthma.
- CONTACT DERMATITIS: Typically caused by the skin coming into contact with an irritant or allergen, this condition causes red, blistering rashes on all parts of the foot.
- DRY SKIN: Most everyone has experience with dry skin, which can result from other medical conditions or from any number of external conditions. This includes weight bearing stress, aging, diet or household chemicals.
While scratching is the normal response to relieve itchiness, you can actually do great harm to your body. Not only can it make existing skin problems worse, but it can also lead to new bacterial infections.
If you are experiencing itchy feet, visit Cornerstone Foot & Ankle and allow our team to diagnose the condition and help determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is a full service foot and ankle specialty office with locations in Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt. Holly, Woodbury, and Glassboro; serving the South Jersey region. We offer a full suite of services including surgery, fracture care, fungal nail care, diabetic foot care, pediatric podiatry, custom braces and orthotics, wound care, limb salvage, and treatments for arch pain, heel pain, and sports injuries; just to name a few. If it hurts below your knee, we can help you! CALL NOW or request your appointment online TODAY!