Toenail Fungus Podiatrist Or Dermatologist Near Me
As podiatrists we are biased. We know dermatologists can help with your toenail fungus, but we believe we can provide a very safe and efficient treatment plan that can rapidly improve how your toenail fungus looks on the first visit. We believe we can usually do this without having to pursue expensive and dangerous medications, because we are able to provide immediate treatment through trimming, smooth, laser and topical therapies on the first appointment.
How Long Does The Process Take And Is There Anything I Can Do At Home That Can Help
As with every different type of treatment, you wont see the results right away. It usually takes about three months for you to see a healthy nail start to grow in at the bottom, sometimes longer. After that, it will take a year or two for the nail to fully grown in all the way out to the tip. As slow as a glacier, this new nail can take a long time to grow in, so patients is key.
Home treatments do NOT treat the toenail fungus infection, however, home treatments are necessary to prevent the infection and most importantly they prevent re-infection. Home treatment options range from treating shoes, soaking the feet, antifungal creams or lotions, antifungal soap or shampoo, topical urea gel, and other methods. I go into this in detail with my patients because the home side of treating toenail fungus is important. You see, the laser does a great job of getting the fungus to go away, but you are required to keep it away. So this is very important.
Does Insurance Cover Massages
Category: Insurance 1. Is Massage Therapy Covered by Insurance? | Healthie At the current time, there is no standard coverage for massage therapy services within large insurance providers. This means getting coverage comes down to How Much Does Massage Therapy Coverage Cost? The massage is considered medically necessary and/or
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What Are The Signs Of Improvement After Laser Treatment
The infection resolves after a single session in some people, but some require additional sessions depending upon the results. To see complete results, it is important to wait till the complete growth of the new nail.
Signs of improvement include:
- The disappearance of nail discoloration
- Resolution of debris being build upon or under the nail
- Growth of new nail without any abnormal thickness, distorted shape, or bumps
Q: What Causes Heel Pain
A: Typically, heel pain is not caused by one single incident or injury, and the most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which can lead to long-term pain that may one day require surgical treatment if not corrected.
Repetitive stress/pounding of the heel can cause heel pain.
Other common causes can include inflammation of the plantar fascia, inflammation of the back of the heel, inflammation of the heel pad, progressive degeneration of the Achilles tendon, or a stress fracture caused by repetitive stress to the heel.
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What Does The Laser Treatment Feel Like
In most cases, patients may feel slight warming or pressure during the laser nail fungus treatment procedure and no pain whatsoever. Also, as the laser light hits the nail plate, a harmless snapping sound may occur. Every patient at our clinic has been able to complete the procedure easily without anesthesia or numbing agents. If you are concerned about the sensation of the treatment, talk to your laser technician about your concerns. We can do a test spot on your nail so that you can feel the sensation before we proceed.
How Is It Diagnosed
To diagnose a fungal nail infection, your doctor will:
- Look at the skin and nails on your hands and feet.
- Ask about your medical history. This includes any previous symptoms of nail damage or fungal nail infections.
The doctor may take a sample of skin and nail fragments from under the infected nail or a sample of the nail itself. Tests to examine the samples include:
- KOH preparation, to find out if the problem is caused by a fungus.
- Other lab tests, such as a fungal culture, may be done to find which type of fungus you have.
If the tests don’t show fungi but your doctor still thinks that you have a fungal infection, a nail biopsy may be needed.
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Q: What Parts Of The Body Do Podiatrists Treat
A: Podiatrists in Michigan are licensed to treat the foot, ankle, and lower leg below the knee.
At Prime Foot & Ankle Specialists, we specialize in toenail problems, toe problems, foot problems, heel problems, ankle problems, minimally invasive surgery, advanced diagnostic techniques, and advanced treatment options. We pride ourselves on being your choice for all foot and ankle problems!
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Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus Did Not Prove Effective
Becker and Bershow reviewed the scientific studies of laser therapy for toenail fungus and found no effective results in randomized, controlled, clinical trials. In addition, the therapy was not painless and recurrence of fungal infection was high.
However, the authors of the literature review acknowledged that reinfection is so common with nail fungus that it is possible that reinfection, not recurrence of the original infection, was responsible for the unpersuasive results.
Another study, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, noted that laser treatment did not produce a cure when tested on humans with toenail fungus. The researchers noted that only one kind of laser light was tested. Nevertheless, they stated about their results: In vivo treatment did not result in onychomycosis cure meaning that the testing of laser treatment on human patients did not produce a toenail fungus cure.
Does Medicare Cover Nail Trimming
As people get older, paying attention to good health and hygiene becomes even more important. Simple routine tasks, like cutting your fingernails and toenails, can become difficult or even impossible if you have impaired vision or a problem with mobility. As we age, hormonal changes can cause toenails to grow more slowly and get thicker and more brittle. They become more difficult to cut and more prone to fungal infections.
If you have diabetes, it is even more important for you to care for feet and toenails meticulously. Toes and feet are very susceptible to diabetic nerve damage making them more vulnerable to injuries. It is these small injuries that can be difficult to detect until it is too late and the possibility of developing gangrene increases. Even an ingrown toenail can cause a serious infection that could lead to amputation.
Many seniors have common foot problems because they can no longer take care of their feet themselves. That is why it is really important to have regular checkups and discuss any concerns with your doctor. Find out about routine foot care like nail clipping, and whether your Medicare benefits will help cover your care.
Why Proper Toenail Trimming is ImportantIf your toenails are not taken care of, they may cause injury by scratching or puncturing your skin, breaking off and exposing delicate skin under the nail, or by tearing off because of snagging on clothing or other materials.
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Why Choose Arizona Foot Doctors For Nail Fungus Removal
At Arizona Foot Doctors of Scottsdale, we use the safe, effective PinPointe FootLaser for gentle, painless toenail laser treatment. Each appointment lasts about 30 minutes, and you can go right back to your regular activities with no downtime. After laser foot treatment, our podiatrists will recommend follow-up visits to assure that the nails are recovering and determine if additional treatments are necessary. When you schedule a consultation with our team, youll learn more about laser toenail fungus cost and what to expect during the procedure.
Does Medicare Cover Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus
Seniors who have chronic medical conditions or severe underlying conditions such as diabetes and immunodeficiency problems are commonly prone to get toenail fungus. If a toenail fungus is left untreated, it can cause serious issues such as pain, discomfort, and even inability to walk. One of the ways to treat this condition is through laser treatment.
If this is a treatment you are considering, one common question you may have is Does Medicare cover laser treatment for toenail fungus? In this article, we answer that question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of laser treatment for toenail fungus and other helpful info.
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Over 20 Percent Of Us Adults Or Approximately 23 Million People Suffer From Toenail Fungus Infection
Unfortunately, those treatments that have been around a while toxic oral medications and expensive topical creams or nail polish often dont really work. Topical treatments are less than 5% effective. Yes, that’s correct – only 5% effective and only when the fungus is caught very early and only treats the surface of the nail. Not to mention, oral medications are very toxic to the liver, have significant side effects, require regular blood testing so your liver doesnt fail. As a matter of fact, they can adverse reactaions by interacting with other medications you may already be taking. Furthermore, pills are only 60% or so effective, and then the fungus usually comes back within 12 months. That can be extremely frustrating and discouraging.
Fortunately, there is a newer, better, safer treatment available, and laser therapy works over 90% of the time. Since around 2010, more than a handful of laser devices have been FDA approved and are used with success by podiatrists as a safe, quick, effective, pain-free form of treatment. Good to know there’s a solution and effective treatment available – right?
To help guide you through the murky world of toenail fungus, I have put together some basic information to make things easy for you. Below you will find out more about this unsightly condition, how its treated, and what you can expect if you decide laser therapy is the right choice for you.
What Is The Success Rate
Laser treatment for toenail fungus has an 80% success rate. In contrast, topical ointmoints are only 10-25% effective, and are very inconvenient as they need to be apllied once or twice daily for up to 48 weeks. Oral medications have a higher success rate of about 50%, but can have serious side effects including liver damage that require blood tests. Laser treatment has no dangerous side effects. It is important to remember that treating your toenail fungus does not mean you will not get it again. You should avoid wet, moist environments such as public showers where your feet can be re-exposed. You should throw away old socks and shoes that can reinfect your toenails.
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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.
What Causes Toenail Fungus
Fungus loves the moist dark area under your toenail. The fungus is an organism that tends to feed on dead organic matter, like skin cells. It enters the toenail through a small cut or break and thrives there, in the dark.
Anyone can develop this problem, but its more common as you get older because the body is less able to fight infection. Despite what you might believe, toenail fungus is not a sign of poor hygiene. Its simply a sign that youve had an injury that gave the microorganisms access.
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What Types Of Treatments Are Available For Toenail Fungus
Until recently, toenail fungus treatment had been limited to topical anti-fungal creams/nail lacquer and oral medication. With limited success and many downsides, these treatments have become secondary to the more effective laser treatments.
The antifungal cream/lacquer has the lowest success rate, ranging from 5-12% . Unless you have extremely mild toenail fungus, topical treatments are very unlikely to effectively penetrate into, underneath, and around the affected toenail.
Prescribed oral medications work somewhat better . Howeverand this is big, however oral antifungal medications have significant medical risks and often interreact with other prescription drugs. Oral medications should not be prescribed without consulting a primary care physician, in order to ensure safety and protection during the months you would be taking these pills.
Side effects might include liver failure, rash, loss of taste, or change of taste , headaches, stomach discomfort, and lupus-like symptoms.
Topical medications require daily applications for at least a year, and often longer. Even then, a lifetime of application on some level is required to prevent a recurrence. Oral medications, similarly, require several months of pills and are usually associated with recurrence at some point afterward.
Studies show the success in clearing fungal infection through laser treatment was good enough for laser treatment to be FDA cleared and is now considered the ideal method to treat onychomycosis.
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Our Sugar Land podiatry office offers the most effective and state-of-the-art, quality podiatry care with a smile to patients in our local community. Return to a pain-free life and get back to the things you love! Call 281.397.3487 today!
How Do You Know If You Have Toenail Fungus
Your best bet is to get your toenails looked at by your trusty podiatrist. If you see any of the signs weve mentioned, just make an appointment for an evaluation. Since the infection will usually spread, youre better safe than sorry.
Detecting it early also improves the chances for the treatment to do its thing and keep it from moving onto other nails or your skin.
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How Is A Laser Used For Toenail Fungus Removal
- Laser toenail fungal removal is a modern and safe treatment option for removing and preventing future fungal infections.
- It is the most effective and less harmful way.
- A precisely directed laser can eliminate the fungus without doing any harm to the surrounding nail tissues.
- The underlying technologies are already used for various other conditions, like cataract surgery, dental work, hair removal, with proven excellent results and safety.
- Laser therapy is also approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, to treat fungal infections of the toenails.
How Much Does Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus Cost
Laser treatment for toenail fungus can reach up to $1,000 or even more. This price varies depending on the provider.
Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Always be sure to double check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.
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