Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection caused by tiny organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments. Symptoms include itching, redness, and cracked skin on the feet. Getting a foot massage can be beneficial for overall foot health, but individuals with athlete's foot may need to exercise caution due to the risk of infection spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Proper precautions such as wearing protective gloves and cleaning equipment thoroughly can minimize this risk.