3 Reasons Your Feet Stink

If you’re the kind of person that people would actually run from if they heard the Halloween rhyme, “Trick or treat, smell my feet,” we at Texas Foot Specialists want to help! Foot odor is an embarrassing problem but there are solutions. Your first step is to make an appointment at our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) office so that our podiatrists Dr. Bruce Miller or Dr. Gregory Mangum can examine your feet and determine the source of your problem.

Foul foot odor can have several different causes. Below are three of the more common ones and what to do about them.

1.       You have hyperhidrosis. This is an inherited medical condition that causes your feet to sweat excessively. Since sweat mixed with bacteria found on your feet and in your socks and shoes combine to create the bad odor, excessive perspiration leads to increased foot odor. Other medical causes for smelly feet include taking certain medications, hormonal changes and stress. If one of these is the cause of your foot odor problem, the podiatrist will advise you and prescribe any necessary treatment.

2.       Your footwear choices need modifying. Trendy shoes made of vinyl or plastic or other materials that don’t allow your feet to breathe will increase foot odor. Choose breathable materials like canvas and leather. Don’t wear your shoes multiple days in a row. Alternate between a few pairs so that shoes have a chance to dry out. Look for socks that are absorbent and wick moisture away from the skin. If you feel that your feet are damp, change your socks promptly. Always wear socks with closed shoes.

3.       You need to revamp your hygiene regimen. Simply being diligent about washing your feet every day with soap can help decrease foot odor. Dust your feet with non-medicated baby powder or foot powder or use a roll-on deodorant on the bottom of your feet. You can also try soaking your feet in a strong black tea solution for 30 minutes a day for one week. The acid in the tea kills the bacteria and closes your pores.

If you have a foot problem, even if it is embarrassing, don’t hesitate to contact us.