Swimming is great for cardiovascular health, muscle strength, joint flexibility, circulation and mental wellbeing. However, swimming pools can be dangerous places for your feet, so here are some common foot problems to look out for.
Fungal Toenail Infections
Warm, damp places are an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections. The first sign is discolouration underneath the toenail – usually a white or yellow/brown spot. This leads to thick, crumbly nails. Bits of the nail can even flake off and, in extreme cases, the nail may come away from the nail bed.
Jagged edges and exposed skin allow bacteria to take hold. If left untreated blood poisoning can follow – a serious situation indeed, so don’t ignore the early warning signs.
Your podiatrist can advise you on topical treatments or oral medications to combat the infection. We can also trim and file the nail to remove infected parts and encourage healing.
Athlete’s Foot
This common fungal infection lurks in wet and warm places. It affects the skin around the toes, or anywhere moisture accumulates. You’ll notice red, itchy and flaky skin which can lead to painful blisters.
Athlete’s foot is contagious and without treatment, it quickly spreads across your foot. The skin can crack which leaves you vulnerable to more serious infection.
This uncomfortable condition can be effectively treated with topical creams or oral medication as appropriate, so talk to your podiatrist as soon as possible.
Verrucae (Plantar Warts)
Moist, warm environments are great for verrucae. These hard, tough areas of skin are covered by black dots (or one dot) and are caused by a form of human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus can sneak into cuts or scrapes on your feet.
Verrucae commonly appear on the ball or the heel. As these are weight-bearing areas, a verruca quickly becomes uncomfortable and painful.
Quick treatment is essential, as verrucae spread quickly. At Feet By Pody, we have a range of effective treatments to deal with plantar warts. The infected tissue can be destroyed by freezing (cryotherapy) or acid-based treatments. We also see good results with needling or Swift microwave technology.
Foot Cramps
Sudden muscle spasms can be extremely painful and even dangerous to a weaker swimmer in the middle of the pool. Cramping is caused by dehydration, repetitive stress and overuse so regular swimmers are particularly at risk.
Your podiatrist can guide you through suitable exercises and stretches to help strengthen the soft tissues of the foot. We can also advise on the best way to stay hydrated.
Heel Problems
Cracked heels are common hazards for swimmers. Constant immersion in water affects the skin’s natural oils which keep everything supple and healthy. Over time, water strips away these essential lubricants leaving your skin dry and prone to cracking.
Cracked heels often leave deep fissures in your skin which opens the way for nasty infections. Daily moisturising and good hydration help tremendously but if the problem persists your podiatrist can treat them with specialised creams. We may also file or cut away the dead skin – a painless and effective treatment.
Protect Your Feet
It’s wise to protect your feet by wearing flip-flops in the changing area and around the pool. As an extra precaution, you can even wear waterproof swimming socks. These keep your feet safe and still allow you to swim easily. Always shower and dry carefully after swimming, particularly between the toes.
Footcare at a Convenient London Clinic
Our experienced podiatrists are waiting to help with any foot problems.