Why Athlete’s foot mostly attack third and fourth toes?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the upper layer of the skin of the foot, especially when it is warm, moist, and irritated. It is also known as tinea pedi and ringworm of the foot. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot is called Trichophyton and is commonly found on floors and in clothing.

If we notice all the other toes have a clear gap between them at their base for ventilation but the third and fourth toes adjoin closely. This reduces the evaporation of moisture from this site and it is warm dark and has a collection of dead skin cells which in turn creates a welcoming site for fungi especially when the same socks were worn for more than 36 hrs.

The possible symptoms of athletes foot include:

• itching, stinging, and burning between your toes or on the soles of your feet
• blisters on your feet that itch
• cracking and peeling skin on your feet, most commonly between your toes and on your soles
• dry skin on your soles or sides of your feet
• raw skin on your feet
• discolored, thick, and crumbly toenails
• toenails that pull away from the nail bed
  

There are several things you can do to help prevent athlete’s foot infections:

• Wash your feet with soap and water every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• placing cotton balls or gauze between them will help to keep the area dry.
• Wash socks, bedding, and towels in water that’s 140°F (60°C) or higher. Combining washing socks and application of OTC antifungal recommendations should treat most cases of athlete’s foot. You can disinfect your shoes by using disinfectant wipes (like Clorox wipes) or sprays.
• Put antifungal powder on your feet every day.
• Don’t share socks, shoes, or towels with others.
• Wear socks made out of breathable fibers, such as cotton or wool, or made out of synthetic fibers that wick moisture away from your skin.
• Change your socks when your feet get sweaty.
• Air out your feet when you are at home by going barefoot.
• Wear shoes made of breathable materials.
• Alternate between two pairs of shoes, wearing each pair every other day, to give your shoes time to dry out between uses. Moisture will allow the fungus to continue to grow.
  

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/athletes-foot