Fungal Nail Treatment

There are common signs that are highly suggestive of a fungal infection such as thickened, discoloured, crumbly or darkened nails caused by debris build up.

Walk This Way Podiatry offers Lunula Treatment for treating damaged nails and fungal infections, as having a proper diagnosis and applying the most effective treatment to your feet is essential to prevent further injuries.

Focused lasers used for fungus removal attack the organisms that live in and under the nail without damaging the skin and tissue. By passing light through the toenail, the fungal microbes are destroyed and the fungus is killed.

This treatment is painless and has no side effects after the procedure. As a result, patients will exhibit clear, healthy growth of new nails without damage to the surrounding tissue.

A fungal nail infection occurs when fungi invade the nail plate or nail bed, causing the nail to become discoloured, thickened, brittle or crumbly. It most often affects toenails and can spread from one nail to another.

Common signs include yellow, brown or white discolouration, thickening, crumbling at the edges, changes in shape and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Other conditions such as psoriasis or trauma can look similar, so a podiatry assessment helps confirm the diagnosis.

Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Infections often start after minor nail damage, walking barefoot in shared showers or pool areas, wearing tight or sweaty shoes, or having untreated tinea between the toes.

Mild infections sometimes stay stable, but they rarely clear completely without treatment. Most fungal infections tend to persist or slowly worsen over time, which is why early treatment is recommended.

Treatment may include thinning and trimming the nail, topical antifungal solutions, oral antifungal medication prescribed by your doctor, and advice on hygiene and footwear. Your podiatrist will recommend the most suitable combination based on how severe and extensive the infection is.

Fungal nail treatment is a slow process because toenails grow slowly. It can take nine to twelve months or more for a new healthy nail to grow through. Regular review helps track progress and adjust the plan if needed.

Most treatment is not painful. Nail thinning and trimming may feel strange but should not hurt when done carefully. If any part of the nail or skin is tender, your podiatrist will work gently and explain each step before it is done.

Standard nail polish can trap moisture and make it harder to see the nail as it improves. It is often best avoided during treatment, or used only for short periods. If you have pedicures, let the therapist know about the infection and avoid sharing tools or instruments.

Prevention includes drying feet well, changing socks daily, wearing breathable shoes, using thongs or sandals in shared wet areas and treating any athlete foot promptly. You may also be advised to disinfect shoes and nail tools.

Fungal infections can spread through shared surfaces, towels, socks and shoes. Good hygiene, not sharing footwear or nail tools and wearing thongs in bathrooms can reduce the chance of others becoming infected.