If you are a sports player or are on your feet on a constant basis, then you are probably well aware of sweaty feet. Not only do sweaty feet make you uncomfortable in your shoes, they can also cause blisters and foot odor. Smelly feet can be embarrassing and make it so you do not want to take off your shoes, especially in public places such as the gym, pool, or shoe store. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for those who suffer from smelly feet.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. What this means is that by being proactive and by taking preventive measures, you can stop smelly feet from taking over your life. Here are some easy ways to be proactive about smelly feet:

• Wash and examine your feet daily. Use lukewarm water and antibacterial soap. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly so that the moisture is not trapped again, causing the problem to reoccur.
• Change your socks and shoes at least once a day. Noticing that your feet get sweaty right around lunch? Put a pair of socks and shoes in your car and go out and change them while on break. This allows for your feet to get out of the dampness and stop the bacteria from breeding further.
• Use non-medicated baby powder or foot powder regularly. This helps keep feet dry and moisture wicked.
• Use antibacterial ointment to kill the bacteria that has already started to grow.
• Check for fungal They often crop up between the toes and on the bottoms of the feet due to the warm, damp climate of the shoes. If you see redness or dry patchy skin, seek a podiatrist right away.
• Wear thick, soft socks to help keep moisture away from the feet. Cotton or dri fit materials often work great.
• Avoid nylon socks and plastic shoes. They will trap and promote moisture. Instead, invest in leather, canvas or mesh shoes that let the feet breathe.
• Don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row. Give them time to dry out and take a break. If odor stays in the shoes, it may be time for a new pair.
• Always wear socks with closed shoes.

These preventative measures may seem too simple to be true, but they absolutely work and will help you tame your smelly feet. If after you have consistently tried all of the options above, it is important to see a podiatrist right away to be sure there are no other infections leading to the stench. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in Fayetteville, New York. Foot care specialist Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico and his highly trained team can help treat your smelly feet before it gets the best of you. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.