Tired of Hiding Your Toes? The Facts About Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is no fun. It can be embarrassing to unveil your feet at the beach, at a pool party, or even in the nail salon.

And forget the ease of just sliding on a pair of sandals in the summer months. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat this condition, one of which is fast, easy, and requires only that you come to appointments. 

We’re talking about laser treatment for toenail fungus. And while this is a relatively newer option, it’s already showing many benefits for those who choose to utilize it. 

At Southwest Foot & Ankle in Scottsdale, Arizona, our providers — Petrina C. Lewis, DPM, FACFAS, and Mark T. Lewis, DPM, FACFAS — are always on the cutting edge of podiatry. 

Our treatment options include those that are most effective for our patients, many of whom have been living with problems like toenail fungus for years. Let us help you break the pattern today.

Toenail fungus 101: What it is and why it happens

Also known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus is a common condition that affects many individuals every year. It’s associated with fungus growing under and around your fingernails and toenails, though it’s usually most common on your toes. 

Different factors can increase your chances of getting a nail fungus, but these issues are the likeliest culprits: 

• Wearing socks and shoes that stay moist for long periods of time
• Wearing socks and shoes that don’t allow air to reach your feet
• Problems with your immune system 
• A fungus, such as athlete’s foot, that travels to your nails

You can recognize a fungal infection in your nail because the nail often becomes brittle, crumbly, or separates from your nailbed. They also may smell bad and turn yellow or white in color. 

For many people, fungal infections are frustrating because they linger. This occurs for a number of reasons, but many people who try to treat the condition do so with over-the-counter medications, which don’t have a strong success rate. Even if there's a reduction in symptoms, the infection often returns. 

How laser therapy works 

Laser therapy for nail fungus is one of the most effective treatment options available. This is because it’s performed in your doctor’s office and specifically targets the fungus to help avoid a recurrence. 

When you come in for your treatment, one of our providers moves a handheld device over your toenails. The device emits a laser that warms and kills the fungus under your nailbed. This is an easy, noninvasive procedure that allows you to return to your day-to-day routine almost immediately. 

Why you should consider laser treatment for toenail fungus

If you’ve never thought about laser treatment for this condition, consider some of the reasons it’s so effective. For one, many patients only need one treatment. 

Although it may take several months for your nails to regrow and return to their natural state, it’s reassuring to have a one-and-done procedure in a doctor’s office instead of long-term treatments at home. 

For another, laser treatment is highly effective and well-tolerated by patients. Studies have shown that participants preferred it to other options (such as oral antifungal medications), and it’s been found to be just as effective as prescription medications. 

Finally, some people feel defeated by the issue, having tried at-home remedies and found them unhelpful. When this is the case, people sometimes live with toenail fungus for years. Laser treatment is an easy, affordable option that can help you heal and feel good about showing your toes again.

Get started with treatment today

If you’ve been living with toenail fungus, consider this effective treatment that often requires only one session. Schedule an appointment at Southwest Foot & Ankle today by calling our office at 480-900-7399 or booking a visit online.