Can telemedicine treat Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?

Audience: pediatric

Athlete’s Foot, also called Tinea Pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It often causes itching, redness, and peeling, especially between the toes. This condition is common in children and can spread easily, especially in warm, moist places like locker rooms or swimming pools. Telemedicine can be a helpful way for parents and caregivers to get advice and guidance about Athlete’s Foot without needing to visit a doctor’s office in person. Through video or phone visits, healthcare providers can assess symptoms, suggest treatments, and help families manage the condition safely at home. However, telemedicine cannot replace in-person exams if the infection is severe, spreading rapidly, or if there are signs of other problems. If your child has Athlete’s Foot symptoms, telemedicine may be a convenient first step to get care and learn how to treat and prevent the infection.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Spreading redness, swelling, or pain beyond the foot — seek urgent in-person care.
• Fever or signs of systemic illness with foot symptoms — get immediate medical attention.
• Large, painful blisters or open sores on the foot — require prompt evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate Athlete’s Foot symptoms via video or photos.
• Guidance on use of over-the-counter antifungal treatments.
• Advice on foot hygiene and prevention strategies.
• Follow-up to check treatment progress and answer questions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe infections with spreading redness or swelling.
• Signs of bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.
• Cases with fever or systemic symptoms.
• Uncertain diagnosis needing physical examination or lab tests.

What is Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?

Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection that usually affects the skin between the toes. It can cause itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters or cracking skin. The fungus thrives in warm, damp areas, so it often spreads in places like locker rooms, swimming pools, or inside sweaty shoes. Children can get Athlete’s Foot from walking barefoot in these places or sharing towels and footwear with others.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to connect with a healthcare provider using a phone or video call. For Athlete’s Foot, a doctor or nurse can ask about your child’s symptoms, look at pictures or video of the feet, and recommend treatments. They can guide you on how to use over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders and how to keep your child’s feet clean and dry. Telemedicine can also help you learn how to prevent the infection from coming back.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Sometimes Athlete’s Foot can get worse or cause other problems. You should seek in-person medical care if your child has:

In these cases, a physical exam and possibly lab tests may be needed.

Preventing Athlete’s Foot

Preventing Athlete’s Foot involves good foot hygiene:

Following these steps can help reduce the risk of getting Athlete’s Foot again.

Treating Athlete’s Foot at Home

Most cases of Athlete’s Foot can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. Apply the medicine as directed, usually for 2 to 4 weeks, even if symptoms improve sooner. Keep the feet dry and clean during treatment. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, contact a healthcare provider.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make sure your child’s feet are clean and visible for the tele-visit.
• Have a good light source to show the affected areas clearly.
• Prepare to describe symptoms: when they started, how they have changed, and what treatments have been tried.
• List any other health conditions or medications your child is taking.
• Write down any questions or concerns you have about the infection or treatment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for treatment carefully.
• Apply antifungal medications as directed for the full recommended time.
• Keep your child’s feet clean and dry.
• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes to prevent spread.
• Schedule a follow-up tele-visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or warning signs develop.

FAQs

Can Athlete’s Foot go away on its own without treatment?

Athlete’s Foot usually does not go away without treatment. The fungus can keep growing and spreading, making symptoms worse. Using antifungal medicines helps clear the infection faster and reduces the chance it will come back.

Are antifungal creams safe for children?

Yes, most over-the-counter antifungal creams are safe for children when used as directed. However, always follow the instructions on the package or your healthcare provider’s advice. If your child has sensitive skin or allergies, check with a provider before use.

Can Athlete’s Foot spread to other parts of the body?

Yes, the fungus can spread to other areas like the hands or groin if touched and not washed properly. It’s important to keep the infected area clean and avoid scratching to prevent spreading the infection.

How long does it take for Athlete’s Foot to heal?

With proper treatment, Athlete’s Foot often improves within 1 to 2 weeks, but you should continue treatment for the full time recommended (usually 2 to 4 weeks) to fully clear the infection and prevent it from coming back.

Can my child go to school or daycare with Athlete’s Foot?

Yes, Athlete’s Foot is not usually contagious through casual contact. However, it’s important to keep your child’s feet clean and covered to avoid spreading the fungus through shared surfaces or towels.

Sources

1. Athlete's Foot — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Athlete's Foot: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
4. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot) — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine education is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have concerns about your child’s health, seek in-person evaluation from a healthcare provider.