What to Do About Stinky Feet

Although stinky feet may be a common source of jokes and ribbing, serious, chronic foot odor is no laughing matter. At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle we have many patients who come to us for help with this embarrassing problem.

What Causes Foot Odor

Your feet and hands contain about 3,000 sweat glands per inch—that’s more than any other part of your body! Foot odor is caused by the interaction of the perspiration from your feet and the bacteria that naturally thrive when your feet are covered in socks and shoes. Excessive sweating can be an inherited condition called hyperhidrosis. Increased sweat and foot odor can also be caused by stress, a low-grade infection, certain medications, hormonal changes, and fluid intake. Our professionally trained podiatrists, Dr. Larry Hotchkiss and Dr. Gregory Cardinal will take the time to conduct a thorough exam of your feet and take a health history to determine the cause of your foot odor and appropriate treatment.

Getting Rid of the Smell

Depending on the cause behind the odor, your foot doctor may prescribe a special ointment that they will ask you to apply to your feet and then wrap your feet with an impermeable covering, such as plastic wrap. Another natural remedy they may suggest is to soak your feet in a strong black tea solution made by boiling 2 tea bags per pint of water for 15 minutes then add 2 quarts of cool water or a solution of one part vinegar and two parts water for 30 minutes a day for one week. These solutions contain acid that kills the bacteria and closes the pores, which will keep your feet dry longer.

Foot Care to Prevent Foot Odor

The best way to avoid foot odor is to follow some basic foot care tips:

• Always wear socks with shoes
• Choose shoes made of breathable materials such as leather, canvas or mesh; avoid nylon or plastic shoes
• Wash feet daily with warm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, particularly between your toes
• Don’t wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row; if you participate in a sport regularly have two pairs of shoes and alternate between them, allowing 24 hours between wearings for shoes to air out
• Use baby powder or foot powder to keep feet dry
• Check your feet for red, scaly patches or other changes that may indicate a bacterial or fungal infection

If you have concerns about foot odor or any other foot or ankle conditions, please make an appointment at either our Waldorf or Clinton office.