By Center for Podiatric Medicine
June 14, 2017
Category: Foot Health
Tags: Laser Treatment toenail fungus
Wearing sandals should be a given during the warm weather months. People with toenail fungus, however, usually make sure that their feet are covered at all times to hide the embarrassing discoloration and abnormal growth. Laser treatments from your podiatrist in River North, Elmhurst and Schaumburg, IL and Highland, East Chicago and St. John, IN can effectively treat your fungal toenails and allow you to enjoy the summer. In this post, you'll learn how the foot doctors at the Center for Podiatric Medicine use this technology to eradicate toenail fungus.
What is toenail fungus?
Fungal infection of the toenails is a common problem seen by your River North, Elmhurst and Schaumburg podiatrist, affecting about 10% of the population at any given time. People with diminished circulation, those who spend a lot of time at gyms or pools, or who consistently wear restrictive socks and shoes are at particular risk for developing fungal infections. A specific type of fungi called dermatophytes is typically the culprit; the toenails become yellowed, brittle and misshapen as the fungus grows on and under the nails. In severe cases, toenail fungus may affect the nail bed and cause pain or secondary infections to develop.
How does a laser treat toenail fungus?
Your Highland, East Chicago and St. John podiatrist uses the heated light of the specialized laser to kill the fungus from the inside out. The laser we use at the Center for Podiatric Medicine has been calibrated to target the fungus and pass through the structure of the nail without damaging it. This procedure is quick, taking only about 30 minutes, and most patients report no pain, although a few will feel a warming sensation. It also requires no downtime afterward. While results aren't instant - it will take time for a healthy nail to grow in - more than 90% of cases have success after one to three laser treatments.
Don't let toenail fungus put a damper on your summer. The staff at Center for Podiatric Medicine in River North, Elmhurst and Schaumburg, IL and Highland, East Chicago and St. John, IN can schedule a consultation for you about laser treatment. Choose the office closest to you and contact us today!
