Rashes can appear anywhere on the skin, but feet and ankles are among the most common locations. Poor ventilation, low circulation, and other factors make them particularly vulnerable.
Common symptoms of foot rashes include discoloration, dry skin, itchiness, flakiness, changes in texture, blistering, and swelling. Because conditions with similar (in some cases nearly indistinguishable) symptoms can be caused by so many different factors—fungi, viruses, allergies, friction, sunburn, disease, medications, etc.—foot rashes that are painful or chronic should be evaluated by a podiatrist to determine the best treatment.
Common Foot Rashes
Some of the most common skin rashes we treat on the feet and ankles include:
- Athlete’s Foot
This fungal infection causes scaly, burning, itching skin, usually on the tops of feet and between toes. It is caused by the same kinds of fungi that also produce fungal nails, ringworm, jock itch, and other skin infections. It can usually be treated at home with a topical antifungal spray or cream. - Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, the primary cause of this condition is not known, but is thought to be genetic and linked with allergies. It often appears first in young children. Symptoms can vary widely, but most commonly appear in places around joints and where the skin flexes and creases. Severe eczema may produce fluid-filled bumps. - Contact dermatitis
This rash appears due to direct skin contact with a toxin, allergen, or other irritant—for example, poison ivy or household chemicals. Burning sensations and blistering are common. It is not contagious. - Psoriasis
This condition is the result of skin cells with abnormally accelerated life cycles, causing them to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface. It can appear in multiple places, including the feet. The skin often takes on puffy red patches covered in silver-colored scales. Psoriasis of the feet in particular often features pus-filled blisters and can be linked with fever, chills, and diarrhea. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that is thought to be caused by a defect in the immune system. - Hand, foot, and mouth disease
This rash is caused by a viral infection, and typically affects children under age 10 (though anyone can get it). Common symptoms include sores around (or inside) the mouth, fever, sore throat, and rashes (or blisters) on the hands, legs, and feet. Treatment is restricted to symptom management, and the condition should go away on its own in around a week. It is contagious, so be sure to practice good hygiene.
Do I Need Treatment?
Many skin rashes are temporary and can be treated at home. However, it’s always wise to see your podiatrist about a rash, especially under any of the following circumstances:
- You have diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation
- Your rash is causing pain or discomfort that interferes with daily activities or sleeping
- You notice any signs of infection
- The rash appears to be getting worse
- The problem is chronic or recurring
Because there are so many different possible causes, we may need to perform some diagnostic testing to accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
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