"My Feet Are On Fire!"

Exercise and fitness image.

A can of air freshener stands ready. Your kids run frantically out of the room. Even your dog runs for cover. What’s going on? It's your feet. You’re taking off your shoes and the smell is enough to knock everyone out! On top of that, your feet burn as if you're walking on hot coals - all the time.

What causes foot odor and what can you do about it?

The most common cause of foot odor is Athlete’s Foot – also called ringworm of the foot. It’s caused by a fungal infection and the sweating and improper ventilation of the feet. Major symptoms include constant itching and scratching which invites a secondary bacterial infection that can make the problem even worse!

Athlete’s Foot is contagious, usually contracted through contact with the fungus in public changing rooms and showers. After a bout with Athlete’s Foot, many wear a water type shoe or sandal in the showers at gyms and swimming pools.

Other ways to avoid Athlete’s Foot?

  • Change your socks often – especially during warmer months when your feet tend to sweat more; make sure you wear cotton socks

  • Wash your feet well with soap and water – especially in between the toes!

  • Keep your feet dry, using talc or powder

  • Wash your socks in hot water

  • Apply four to ten drops of tea tree oil, three times a day for two weeks, to make certain the infection is gone

  • Avoid products with yeast, such as breads and alcohol which may increase the likelihood of developing Athlete’s Foot

  • Apply a cider vinegar and water rub to the infected area. Fungi need an alkaline environment to grow in and vinegar is acidic

Athlete’s Foot and any other infection is possible when your immune system (controlled by your nervous system) is impaired. It’s just one more reason to get adjusted regularly.

Dr. Nicholson Asks some important questions of interest to Fulton residents - Chiropractor Fulton Dr. Nicholson Asks...

Can someone who has had back surgery receive chiropractic care?
Yes. Rest assured that we will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. However, what we find is that surgical interventions will often produce spinal instability above or below the involved level. This is will be the focus of your chiropractic care.
What's the difference between a "good" drug and a "bad" drug?
As a chiropractor, I see the use of many drugs (legal or illegal) as merely symptom treating. Worse, virtually every drug produces unwanted effects. The effects of chiropractic are largely positive effects. If you're a Fulton parent, consider carefully before giving your child a cough medication, cold remedy or pain reliever so this sort of question doesn't arise in the first place.