Is Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) Related to Toenail Fungus?

Two Sides of the Same Coin?

You’ve got a dry, itchy patch between your toes—then months later, your big toenail starts to discolour. Coincidence? Probably not.

Athlete’s foot and fungal toenail infections (onychomycosis) are often linked. In fact, many patients have both without realising it. These two fungal conditions can feed off each other, creating a cycle that’s tough to break unless you treat both.

In this blog, we’ll break down how these infections are connected, why treating one without the other often leads to recurrence, and how to manage them effectively.

What Is Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?

A contagious skin infection caused by dermatophyte fungi, usually found:

• Between the toes

• On the soles

• Around the sides of the foot

Symptoms include:

• Itchy, flaky, or cracked skin

• Redness or burning

• A musty odour

Athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist environments—think trainers, gyms, and shared showers.

What Is Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis)?

A fungal infection of the nail plate and bed, often caused by the same organisms as athlete’s foot (primarily dermatophytes).

Symptoms include:

• Yellow or white discolouration

• Thickened, brittle nails

• Debris under the nail or nail lifting

Fungal nail infections can start as minor and worsen slowly over months or even years.

How Are They Connected?

Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus often:

• Stem from the same fungal source

• Spread to each other if untreated

• Flourish under similar conditions (warmth, moisture, tight footwear)

Common scenarios:

• Athlete’s foot spreads to the toenail via small cracks or trauma

• A fungal toenail sheds spores that re-infect the skin

Result: A frustrating cycle of reinfection.

Risk Factors That Link the Two

You’re more likely to develop both if you:

• Frequently wear trainers or boots without letting them dry

• Walk barefoot in communal areas

• Sweat heavily from your feet (hyperhidrosis)

• Have a compromised immune system or diabetes

Athletes, gym-goers, and those on their feet all day are especially at risk.

How to Break the Cycle

1. Treat Both at the Same Time

• Athlete’s foot may clear with antifungal creams

• Toenail fungus often needs longer-term treatment like nail lacquers, oral meds, or Class IV Laser Therapy

2. Keep Feet and Footwear Clean

• Wash feet daily, dry thoroughly

• Alternate shoes and use antifungal sprays inside them

• Wear cotton or moisture-wicking socks

3. Disinfect Everything

• Socks, towels, nail tools, and even the shower floor can harbour fungus

• Regular washing at high temperatures and disinfecting surfaces is essential

Professional Treatment Options

At We Fix Feet, we offer:

• Class IV Laser Therapy for fungal toenails

• Topical and oral antifungal guidance

• Custom orthotics and footwear advice to reduce moisture and pressure

• Skin and nail assessments to catch infections early

Final Thoughts: One Infection, Two Fronts

Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus may appear separate, but they’re part of the same story.

Ignoring one can sabotage your treatment efforts and increase the chances of recurrence. Addressing both—alongside good hygiene and footwear habits—gives you the best shot at clear, healthy feet.

👣 Suspect fungal issues? Book a full foot assessment at www.wefixfeet.co.uk or call 0115 9328832 today.