What’s Really Causing Your Itchy Feet?
An occasional itch is normal—but when your feet are constantly itchy, it can quickly become disruptive and uncomfortable. While it’s tempting to brush it off or hope it goes away on its own, itchy feet are often your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. As podiatrists, we see this common complaint every day and the good news is, there are effective treatments that can bring relief once the cause is identified.
One of the most common triggers is athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that loves warm, damp environments like shoes and locker rooms. It usually starts between the toes and causes intense itching, redness, and peeling. Left untreated, it can spread or become infected. A podiatrist can prescribe effective antifungal treatments to eliminate it and stop the itch for good.
Diabetic neuropathy is a more serious reason for itchy feet—especially if there’s also burning, tingling, or numbness. This condition results from nerve damage due to high blood sugar levels and requires ongoing monitoring and specialized care to prevent complications like ulcers or infections. If you have diabetes and notice unexplained itching, don’t wait—early care can make a major difference.
Another frequent culprit is dry skin. Unlike other areas of your body, the skin on your feet doesn’t produce natural oils, making it highly prone to dryness, especially in colder months or with frequent exposure to hot showers. Dry, cracked feet can feel itchy and irritated. Medical-grade moisturizers or prescription creams can restore hydration and soothe irritated skin.
In colder weather, chilblains may develop. These red, itchy patches are a reaction to sudden temperature changes, especially when cold feet are warmed too quickly. Chilblains can be uncomfortable but usually improve on their own. However, if they linger or worsen, professional evaluation is key to ruling out circulation problems.
Sunburn is another cause you might not think about. Walking barefoot or wearing open sandals in the sun can leave the tops of your feet vulnerable to UV rays. Mild sunburns can cause itching as the skin heals. Applying sunscreen to your feet and not just your face and shoulders can help prevent painful burning and itching during warmer months.
Let’s Get to the Root of the Itch—Together
You don’t have to live with itchy, irritated feet. At Maple Springs Foot Center, our podiatrists take every symptom seriously and use advanced diagnostic tools to uncover the cause and deliver targeted relief. Whether it’s dry skin, a fungal infection, nerve-related discomfort, or something in between Dr. Stuart Snyder, Dr. Sara Sharma, and Dr. Sahar Zadeh are here to help.
Maple Springs Foot Center is conveniently located in Gaithersburg, MD. Don't wait until a minor itch turns into a major issue. Call (301) 762-3338 or book an appointment online and take the first step toward itch-free, healthy feet.
