Foot Rash

A Guide to the Different Types of Foot Rash

If you have a foot rash, the information provided will help you potentially determine the type, as well as cause and appropriate treatment. Most often, a rash is not a big deal but as with any change of the body, it is important to pay attention and seek medical care if, and when needed. For instance, wearing ill-fitting shoes could cause a foot rash, not trying the foot off after being in water could create a rash, and even sensitivity to laundry detergent could cause a rash.

However, a foot rash could also be a sign of something that needs to be addressed by a doctor. Typically, foot rashes are caused by too much moisture, water or perspiration, fungus, allergies, and sometimes, stress. A rash from stress or allergies would likely not need any attention but for any type of bacteria, an infection could set in, leading to more serious problems. The following are examples of what could cause a foot rash that should be looked at or treated:

Athlete’s Foot – The official name is Tinea Pedia, which is the most common type of foot rash. In this case, fungus is the culprit, which is spread by walking on a floor where fungus thrives, public shower, locker rooms, gyms, etc. More women get this rash than women do and in fact, it can spread to the groin area. When Athlete’s Foot begins, it can be treated and there are even ways to prevent it but if not treated, it can lead to fungus growing under the toenails, feet develop a foul odor, skin itches, and the skin can even crack and bleed. The following are helpful tips when dealing with Athlete’s Foot:

Be sure you wear 100% cotton socks that can absorb extra moisture and even then, be sure to change them at least once a day, twice if needed
Several over-the-counter topical creams to include Lamisil and Loprox help
As soon as a foot rash shows up, you can apply nail lacquer such as Penlac, which will prevent the disease from spreading
If the case is bad or the above treatments do not work, Athlete’s Foot might need to be treated with antibiotics and/or an antifungal medication

Pustular Psoriasis – Another cause of foot rash is actually a member of the psoriasis family. While the cause is still not known, the problem is that in addition to affecting the soles of the feet, it can quickly spread, covering the entire body. Sometimes, blisters that have pus will develop, eventually turning brown and flaky. Treatment in this case involves one of the following:

Steroidal topical cream or ointment
Corticosteroid such as Dovobet
High-intensity UV light
Oral medication to include Trexall and Soriatane

Dyshidrotic Eczema – In this case, the foot rash would likely affect only the toes and sole. Although anyone can get it, Dyshidrotic Eczema usually affects only young people, causing blisters, dryness, and itching. Treatments include:

Mixing tap water, saline, and 10% aluminum acetate and applying to a cloth used as a compress
Steroidal topical cream
Immunomodulators that help the body’s immune system fight the problem
Allergy medication to relieve itching and foot rash such as Prednisone
Oral antibiotics

Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis – The more common term for this type of foot rash is “sneaker dermatitis”, which is seen in younger children, typically 10 to 15 years of age that causes discomfort, itching, and cracking, making it painful to walk. These children generally have eczema, hay fever, or allergies. Doctors recommend the following treatments for this type of foot rash:

Shoes need good ventilation
100% cotton socks
Steroidal topical ointment
Petroleum jelly or similar products to heal cracking and dryness