Your toe likely hurts when you swim due to a condition called "pool toes," a type of irritant contact dermatitis caused by the combined effects of mechanical friction and prolonged water exposure.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
What is Pool Toes?
Pool toes is a sport-related dermatosis that specifically affects the toes of swimmers. It's essentially a form of skin irritation triggered by:
- Mechanical Friction: Repetitive kicking and pushing off pool walls can cause friction between your toes, or between your toes and your swimming footwear (flippers, etc.).
- Water Exposure: Prolonged immersion in water, particularly chlorinated water, can weaken the skin's natural barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation and damage from friction.
Symptoms of Pool Toes
The symptoms of pool toes can vary, but generally include:
- Pain or soreness in the affected toes.
- Redness and inflammation of the skin around the toes.
- Dryness, cracking, or peeling of the skin.
- In severe cases, blisters or ulcers may develop.
How to Prevent and Treat Pool Toes
Here are some tips to prevent and treat pool toes:
- Use proper swim technique: Focus on efficient kicking to reduce friction.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Choose well-fitting fins or swim shoes to minimize rubbing.
- Apply a barrier cream: Before swimming, apply a waterproof balm or petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) to your toes to protect them from friction and water exposure.
- Moisturize after swimming: After swimming, thoroughly dry your feet and apply a moisturizing lotion to replenish moisture to the skin.
- Take breaks: If possible, take short breaks from swimming to allow your feet to dry.
- Consider socks: Wearing thin socks inside your fins can help reduce friction.
- Consult a doctor: If your symptoms are severe or don't improve with home treatment, consult a doctor or dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. They may recommend topical corticosteroids or other medications.
In summary, toe pain while swimming is often caused by pool toes, an irritant dermatitis resulting from friction and water exposure. Prevention and treatment involve reducing friction, protecting the skin barrier, and moisturizing regularly.
