If your nails are crumbling, yellowed, or brittle, you might be dealing with a fungal infection. Although you might feel embarrassed to talk about nail fungus, the reality is that it’s a rather common problem, with over one billion people struggling with hair, skin, and nail fungal infections worldwide. Fungal infections spread easily from toe to toe or from person to person.
Whether you’ve been battling a nail fungus for a while or you’re just starting to see the signs of one, podiatrist Dr. Mark Forman and our experienced team at Put Your Feet First provide top-notch fungal infection treatments, from oral medications to laser therapy.
Below, we explore the advantages of laser therapy and how it can help you halt the spread of infection.
How does laser therapy work?
When you receive a laser treatment, Dr. Forman directs the pulses of light energy toward your affected nail. The light energy produces heat, which penetrates your nail to reach the nail bed ー where the fungus is present. Because the heat can penetrate the area where the fungus is, the heat inhibits further fungal growth, essentially halting the infection.
Is it safe?
Yes, laser treatments are effective in inhibiting fungal growth, but the treatments are precise and won’t hurt your skin. You may feel slight warmth during each pulse of energy. Dr. Forman uses an FDA-approved laser device that’s made to destroy fungal infections in ー and underー your nails.
Even better, laser therapy doesn’t come with the same side effects as oral medications can. Studies show that not only is laser therapy safe, but it’s effective too. According to a study published in American Family Physician, 91% of fungal nails treated with laser therapy showed clinical improvement at 180 days post-treatment.
Advantages of laser therapy
If you’ve been using over-the-counter antifungal creams without any progress, you might wonder if it’s time to consider laser therapy. Laser therapy is particularly beneficial for stubborn infections.
Here are additional advantages of choosing laser therapy:
- No need to use messy creams or take oral medication
- No side effects
- Safe and effective treatment
- Quick treatments — just a few minutes per nail
- No downtime required
After your laser treatment, you can resume your daily routines.
Keeping your nails fungus free
Even after your laser therapy, there are steps you can take to prevent re-infection. Because fungal infections spread easily, be sure to wash any infected socks, clothing, or linens in hot water. Sanitize your shoes too.
You can prevent future outbreaks by:
- Keeping your feet clean and dry (changes socks throughout the day if you need to)
- Wear shower shoes in public locker rooms or pool areas
- Avoid putting lotion between your toes or on your nails
- Thoroughly dry your feet after showering
- Let your shoes air dry before wearing them again
If you’re struggling to beat a fungal infection, we can help. To learn more about laser therapy, schedule an appointment at our office in Scottsdale, Arizona. Call 480-423-8400 or request an appointment online today.