Keep MRSA from Infecting Your Feet

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria you have probably heard about in the news lately. It can be found on clothing, countertops, floors, carpets, the health club, mats, and even high school football or wrestling. This bacteria has even closed public schools recently.

The reason I chose to write about MRSA is because we commonly find it on the feet. MRSA can enter the foot through a small opening in your skin such as an ingrown toenail, heel cracks, or a small wound. This "superbug" can be found on exercise mats, swimming pools, locker room floors, and even in your home. Therefore, it is very important to keep any cuts or wounds on your feet covered while walking on these surfaces.

Unfortunately, we have found this bacteria in some of out patients and it can be very difficult to treat. The reason for this is because this bacteria does not respond to normal antibiotics. It only responds to very powerful antibiotics. Once this bug infects your foot it can burrow deep into your tissue and sometimes eat away at your bone. In some cases it may even cause gangrene.

Here are some helpful tips to prevent MRSA from infecting your feet:

1. Check your feet daily. Any ingrown hairs or nails should be looked at by your podiatrist.
2. Do not share your towel.
3. Wash your feet with soap every day.
4. Do not walk barefoot.
5. Use antiseptic sprays on mats or equipment at the gym.