Proven Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus
Toenail Fungus can be removed with our cutting edge FDA cleared Foot Laser. In my opinion, the Pinpointe Laser is the Rolls Royce of laser treatment to resolve fungus nails. Toenail fungual infections are unsightly and embarrassing, as the nails become yellow, thickened and hard to cut. Toenail fungus infections are very common and affect approximately 15% of the United States population. These infections are very difficult to treat. Until recently, the most common medical treatment for fungus toenails was taking oral medication. These medications have complications like Liver Toxicity and therefore the patient requires periodic blood tests. Home remedies and over the counter medications have proven to produce poor results and are a disappointment.
Several years of research gave birth to a much safer solution, the PinPointe Foot Laser. The procedure is safe, painless and quick. It has proven to be very effective. We evaluate each patient on an individual, basis and performs all procedures. As the Senior Laser Specialist for a national company, we have performed thousands of procedures and he states that no two patients are the samethey are only similar! I evaluate each patients family and medical history to see if they are contributing factors to the condition. Lifestyle, hygiene and work activities can be contributing factors. My staff and I will guide you in how to deal with this problem for the rest of your life.
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How Can I Avoid Re
Careful steps must be taken to avoid re-infection such as:
- Treat shoes & skin with anti-fungal agents.
- Apply anti-fungal creams to and between toes.
- Use a anti-fungal powder if your feet sweat excessively.
- Bring clean socks and a change of shoes to wear after treatment.
- Keep your nails trimmed and clean.
- Sanitize stainless nail instruments by boiling in water for minimum 15 minutes.
- Avoid salons where equipment and instruments not properly sanitized.
- Wear flip flops in public places.
- Avoid wearing the same pair of socks and footwear on consecutive days.
- Kill fungus on footwear by placing it in a sealed plastic bag into deep freeze for 2 days.
What Is Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection called onychomycosis. Tinea unguium is another name for it.
Its an overgrowth of fungi that are often found on your body together with other bacteria. You can get the fungi from someone else too, like at a nail salon if the tools arent properly sterilized. Its the same fungi that cause ringworm, jock itch, or athletes foot.
The problematic infection happens when the fungi get in through the cracks in your toenails and start to overpopulate in, on, or under the nail. It just loves warm, moist environments and often finds that in your toenail, especially when you wear shoes. And its even happier if youre active and sweat in your sports shoes.
Onychomycosis can infect your fingernails too but thats less common since your hands arent confined to a warm, moist environment like your feet are.
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Why Choose University Foot And Ankle Institute For Your Foot And Ankle Care
The physicians of University Foot and Ankle Institute have decades of successful experience diagnosing and treating toenail fungus. Our nationally recognized foot and ankle specialists offer the most advanced podiatric care and the highest success rates in the nation. We are leaders in the research and treatment of all foot and ankle conditions.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 736-6001 or visit us here to make an appointment online.
The Last Word On Lasers
Among laser therapies available, Q-switched laser therapy is the most promising solution as a standalone treatment. Its uncertain if other lasers can treat toenail fungus. In terms of available supporting evidence, long-pulse lasers are the least backed-up by clinical studies.
Its worth noting that laser therapy may be beneficial and safe when used in combination with topical treatments. When in doubt, consult a medical professional before choosing a treatment thats right for you.
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Candidates For Hyperblue Plus Laser Therapy
Treating toenail fungal infections isnt a one-size-fits-all approach, so the best way to learn which treatment is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with a provider at the Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers location nearest you.
Your podiatrist reviews your medical history, discusses your symptoms, and conducts a physical evaluation to determine the right therapy for your fungal infection. They may also order additional lab tests to ensure the best treatment for your specific needs.
Generally speaking, you may be a candidate for HyperBlue PLUS laser therapy if you:
- Have tried over-the-counter medications without success
- Havent had success with prescription oral or topical medications
- Dont have certain pre-existing conditions
- Are willing to commit to a series of sessions to eradicate the fungus
Learn if laser therapy is right for you by contacting the Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers office of your choice. You may also request an appointment online at your convenience.
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Is Laser Nail Fungus Treatment Effective
Before you schedule an appointment, your first question may be, is laser nail fungus treatment effective? Clinical studies show support for this treatments efficacy, and toenail laser treatments are approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration. Looking at the clinical trial data/facts, laser nail fungus treatment is effective.
- A 2016 study by the FDA found that patients who received laser foot treatment displayed clear nails at three months and six months after treatment.
- A 2019 study published in the journal American Family Physician by the American Association of Family Physicians found that after 180 days of toenail fungus laser treatment, patients had a 30% cure rate and a 91% improvement in symptoms. The AAFP study also concluded that laser treatment is more effective for fungus removal than both over-the-counter and prescription topical and oral antifungal medications.
- In 2018, the journal Lasers in Medical Science published a study about the efficacy of laser treatment for fungus removal. These researchers reported a success rate of 83.7% among the patient population, who had infections that affected at least two-thirds of the nail.
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Cons Of Using Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus
Its Still Considered Experimental Treatment
Because few studies have been done on the efficacy of laser toenail fungus treatment and none have been done on the long-term effects of the method, it is still viewed as experimental treatment with questionable success results.
Some Argue the Treatment is Ineffective
In a recent study done with the Noveon laser, only 1/3 of patients saw results meaning treatment could be hit or miss, depending on each individual case.
Possibility for Tissue Damage in Some Cases
As with any medical treatment, there is a slight risk involved. Though it is rare, some doctors argue that there is a possibility for skin and tissue damage when the laser beam is directed to the deepest levels of the nail.
Its Expensive
Toenail fungus removal lasers two being the PinPointe FootLaser and the Cutera GenesisPlus are quite expensive for medical facilities to purchase, so the fees for patients to use them are quite high. One laser toenail fungus removal session could cost anywhere from $600 to $1500 and its a process generally not covered by health insurance.
Before deciding whether or not to try laser toenail fungus removal, be sure to consult with a podiatrist or a dermatologist about your condition. Toenail fungus comes in many forms and can look like other foot diseases and ailments, so its important to get a positive diagnosis and professional advice before spending money on expensive treatment options.
How Can I Be Sure I Have Toenail Fungus
Hands down, the best way to determine if you have toenail fungus is to get a nail culture done by a podiatrist. If you see any of the signs Ive mentioned, just make an appointment for an evaluation. Because the infection eventually spreads to every toe, it is better to get cracking and treat it early before bigger problems come around. With toenail fungus, its either treat it and fight it away, or dont treat it and let it get worse. Sounds simple, right? Well, the choice is up to you
Early detection also improves the chances for the treatment to work more effectively and quickly before the infection spreads. Also, this early nail culture will set a baseline so that, after treatment with the laser I often take another nail culture to determine the effectiveness of the laser. There are different components to the fungal culture, and your podiatrist is the best person to discuss the results with you. Most importantly, the laser is over 90% effective for just about every type of fungus out there.
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How Soon Will I Be Able To See Improvement To My Toenails Or Fingernails After Treatment
It usually depends on the origin of the fungal infection. If it was at the root of the nail, improvement can be seen as early as 3 weeks. A continuous improvement will be gradual as the nail continue to grow out. Typically, a significant overall improvement will be seen after 3 months. As a rough estimate, toenails may take 9 12 months to grow out completely, and fingernails may take 6 9 months.
Laser Therapy Is Effective And Fast
The toenail fungus is the most effective treatment for the toenail fungus removal. It would not take much time, and the results are quite promising.
It is not a painful treatment, so you do not have to wait for weeks until the fungus dies.
The average duration to kill the fungus through medications is 4 months, bearing pain for four or more months is quite difficult, so laser treatment is the only fast way to solve this problem.
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What Is Laser Toenail Fungus Removal
Laser procedures are an FDA-cleared treatment for toenail fungus, a nail disorder that, according to the Cleveland Clinic, affects nearly 20% of the U.S. population. Also known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus can make nails turn thick, change their color and shape, and make them crumbly and even painful. Not surprisingly, people also complain that toenail fungus is ugly and embarrassing.
Laser toenail fungus removal uses specific wavelengths of light to kill the fungus. The light passes through the toenail, without causing damage to the nail or harming surrounding skin.
It can take 1218 months for an entirely new toenail to grow out and replace the infected nail, but as it does, the nail will look more normal.
Several different types of lasers can treat toenail fungus. Some options include:
- The Genesis Plus and the Pin-Point are Nd:YAG lasers with a wavelength of 1064 nanometers.
- Lunula is a nonthermal laser that employs two wavelengths of low-level light.
Laser therapy is safe and painless, though you might feel a warming sensation or a pinprick. Its a walk-in, walk-out type of treatment that takes less than 30 minutes, with no downtime or side effects.
Nail fungus can be stubborn and very difficult to cure. Its possible to clear a severe infection, but a healthy-looking nail may be unrealistic, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Still, you can expect the nail to look better and feel more comfortable.
Interested in laser toenail fungus removal?
Are There Any Side Effects
Overall, laser treatment has minimal side effects reported. Q-Switched and cold laser studies report no side effects whatsoever.
During heat laser treatment, one in three people reported pain, burning or darkening in the treated area. Note that heat applied in this manner can generate unpleasant laser plumes and a certain smell. Also, laser light can decrease collagen.
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When Treating Fungal Nailsexperience Matters Most
At Your Next Step Foot and Ankle Care Centers, we have successfully treated more than 10,000 fungal toenails through the use of laser therapy. As the very first podiatry practice in the state of PA to utilize the modern advances available, we are proud to announce a special offer to our patients.
If you suffer with unsightly toenails and are considering the option of laser treatment, we commend you for taking action to improve your condition and are here to help.
Because we understand that laser treatments are not covered by most insurance carriers, and can involve a significant financial commitment, we are pleased to offer a price match guarantee.
We strive to maintain the high standard of quality care that our patients have come to expect at Your Next Step Foot and Ankle Care Centers. Therefore, if you comparable, yet offered at a lower price elsewhere, please let us know and we will be happy to honor it.
For more information about this program contact: Jim Leary at 896-NAIL or via email at .
Current competitors offer must be presented at the time of treatment for price match guarantee to be honored.
How Much Does Laser Treatment Cost
Our philosophy is to keep the cost as low as possible and include all treatment in your initial fees so there are no surprises. The most effective outcomes are achieved with a total of three treatments and all three treatments are included in the total cost of $590. You may see treatment advertised for less, but these prices are for only one treatment, which has not been shown be to as effective as the three treatment protocol. If you do not have insurance coverage the evaluation visit cost is $109.
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What Are The Signs And Symptoms
Initially, a white dot shows up on the nail, which increases in size with time. When fungus builds up under the nail, it can cause:
- Nail thickening or cracks
How do fungal nail infections spread?
- Fungal nail infections are often contagious from nail to nail
- Direct contact with an infected person
- Through sharing surfaces like floors, showers, socks, and shoes.
- The fungus requires warm and moist environments for growth. Public pools, shower areas, gyms, and changing rooms are the most common places for contracting a fungal nail infection.
What are the Risk Factors?
Factors that can lead to an increased risk of developing nail fungus include:
- Old age: reduced blood circulation, more years of fungus exposure, and slow nail growth
- Heavy sweats
- Walking barefoot in damp areas, like swimming pools, gyms & shower rooms
- History of a skin or nail injury or a skin condition like psoriasis
- Patients with diabetes, circulatory problems, or a weak immune system
At Home Laser For Toenail Fungus
If someone is unable to go to the physician and tackling toenail fungus is a routine matter now. Then he must get a reliable home laser device to kill toenail fungus.
These are easy to use, and effective. It is a onetime investment however, it is always better to consider the physician advice before buying home laser killer device before making a purchase.
Below is our picked best home laser device for fungus removal from nails reviewed.
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How Does Laser Treatment Work To Treat Onychomycosis
It is into this environment that the use of lasers has been thrust. Of course, lasers are a very sexy, modern, technologically advanced approach to the treatment of a variety of human diseases. Lasers produce coherent light energy of a sufficient strength and of a specific wavelength, which when projected into tissue is differentially absorbed by the target material, producing heat and hence destroying tissues. Other tissue components are unaffected and so spared. Medical lasers are rather expensive devices, so treatments with these machines requires generally quite high fees to recoup the original purchase price of the equipment. It is proposed that some lasers might work by heating up the nail sufficiently to discourage fungal infections. Another approach to laser treatment of the nails uses a fractional CO2 laser to burn holes in the nail plate through which topical antifungal drugs can effectively penetrate.
Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus
Laser therapy is a treatment for toenail fungus infection , a hard-to-treat infection that changes the appearance and texture of the nail. There are several types of laser treatment options, including those that use light and those that use carbon dioxide . Laser therapy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for this use.
Fungal infections of the nails usually require several laser treatment sessions before they completely resolve. It may take between six and 18 months of consistent treatments for laser therapy to be effective. While these treatments may cause side effects such as pain and/or bleeding of the surrounding area, they are considered safe.
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Does Laser Toenail Fungus Removal Work A 2020 Review
There have been a number of lasers on the market varying in type and by wavelength. Over the years there have been many laser companies claiming that they have good results. Still, to date there is no actual single protocol for laser toenail fungus treatments. The treatments vary by the company and by each individual doctor. As a result, there have been no solid studies to prove that the laser can cure toenail fungus. As a matter of fact, the FDA clearance for laser machines states that it is for temporary increase of clear nail in patients with onychomycosis.
With so many types of lasers and so many different treatment protocols, there truly is no way of knowing which types of lasers have better results and which protocols are best. In addition, there are no true studies to confirm the laser treatment effectiveness. When you combine all of that with the cost of laser treatments, it is difficult to recommend laser treatments for toenail fungus at this time. As noted in the studies above, traditional treatments were as good or better than laser therapy alone. There are many other treatments available to help with this condition.
Here at Gentle Foot Care Clinic, we will wait to see if new evidence supports the use of laser. At this time, we have found that it is not in your best interest to seek laser treatment and we will continue to offer traditional treatments for toenail fungus.
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