Fungus in Your Crocs

| April 26th, 2012

Designer socks for Crocs? Could it be the next big trend?

Known for their comfort and functionality, Crocs became a marvel in the realm of footwear. Crocs shoes are collectively recognized as a fashionable, all-purpose shoe — by some.

Formed from the patented cell resin Croslite, Crocs retain body heat and mold to your feet. With their architectural design, the Crocs give way to an orthotic heel, built-in arch support, and tarsal bar placement.

Due to the closed resin material, Crocs are made to be resistant to the bacteria and fungus that are grounds for severe shoe and foot odor.

Designed in 2002, the shoe was originally envisioned as footwear for boating activities, with its nonslip tread and waterproof propensities.

However, researchers in India have concluded that individuals who wear plastic-foam shoes are more vulnerable to offensive infections in regions of the foot.

In the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, research has pointed to onychomycosis, a fungal condition containing discolored, thickened, and splitting toenails.

The condition is resultant from wearing convenient, slip-on, plastic-foam shoes with NO socks.

“The fungal infection problem most often stems from wearing knock-off versions of Crocs, name-brand plastic footwear made of a patented Croclite plastic that wicks water away from skin,” states New York City podiatrist and spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association, Hillary Brenner. "In Croc-like shoes, the plastic is not a breathable material, therefore locking moisture into the shoe," explains Dr. Brenner.

Fungi are plant organisms indicating mold and mildew and typically fortify in conditions that are moist. Bacteria may flourish as a secondary infection, which deteriorates the symptoms of the disorder and makes it harder to treat. A fungal infection is one of the most challenging nail and foot disorders to treat.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes red, dry, flaking skin, occasionally supplemented by pain or itching. The condition usually occurs between the toes, on the soles or sides of the feet. In its most critical stage, the infected foot exhibits itchy blisters. Athlete’s Foot can spread to the toenails, causing chronic fungal infections.

Fungal infections of the feet are spreadable and can be transferred from walking on contaminated articles and floors.

To learn more about foot care, find a podiatrist in your area.