What Is Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus, also known as fungal toenail infection, occurs when microscopic fungi invade the nail and surrounding tissue. These infections commonly cause the toenail to become thickened, brittle, discolored, distorted, and difficult to maintain.

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and may develop from exposure to communal showers, locker rooms, sweaty footwear, or minor trauma to the nail. Without treatment, the infection can progressively worsen and spread to additional nails.

Toenail fungus not only affects the appearance of the nail but may also lead to discomfort, odor, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably.

Toenail Fungus Treatment Options

At our New York foot clinic, we use advanced diagnostic technology to accurately evaluate the severity of the infection and determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific condition.

Depending on the appearance of the nail and laboratory testing results, treatment may include topical medications, oral antifungal therapy, microwave immunotherapy, laser treatment, or removal of the affected nail in severe cases.

Our goal is to eliminate the fungal infection while restoring the health, strength, and appearance of your toenails.

With prompt diagnosis and proper treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in the appearance and health of their toenails.

Early treatment helps prevent worsening infection, nail deformity, and spread to additional nails. Long-term foot hygiene, breathable footwear, and preventive care may help reduce the risk of recurrence.

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Topical Antifungal Medication

Topical antifungal treatments may be prescribed for mild or moderate fungal infections and are applied directly to the affected nail over an extended period of time.

Oral Antifungal Therapy

For more advanced infections, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed for approximately three months to help eliminate fungus from within the nail and surrounding tissue.

Microwave Immunotherapy

Advanced microwave immunotherapy treatments may help target fungal organisms while stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatment uses focused energy to penetrate the nail and destroy fungal organisms while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Treatment Duration & Recovery

Treatment duration depends on the severity of the infection and the type of treatment selected. Topical medications often require extended use, while oral medications are commonly prescribed for approximately three months.

Because toenails grow slowly, it may take several months for a healthy new nail to fully replace the damaged nail after successful treatment.

Say Hello to Happy and Healthy Feet

At our NYC foot clinic, our team of award-winning foot doctors are able to successfully and quickly treat toenail fungus to restore the function and aesthetics to your foot.

Serving the Downtown and Midtown Manhattan areas of NYC, we help you get back to healthy and happy living. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes scar tissue builds up in a tendon and causes the tendon to lose its elasticity. At that point, chronic Achilles tendinitis can be treated by removing the scar tissue using a minimally invasive procedure like Tenex. This uses a wand that transmits ultrasonic energy to break through the scar tissue leaving healthy tissue behind. Downtime is minimal and return to normal activity is about a week.

Warm-up before and cool down after your workout routine. Slowly increase the intensity of your exercise over a period of time. If you’re using equipment at the gym, make sure you know how to use it safely and also with the form and posture. If unsure, always ask!
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Grab a resistance band (or even a stretchy t-shirt)! Place the band or shirt around the ball of your foot. Pull the two ends of the band or shirt towards you until you feel a nice stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds, and relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this 5-10 times for both legs!

Achilles tendonitis rarely requires surgery. However, if treatment is delayed or neglected, there could be further damage such as a tendon tear. This would require surgical repair, and although we can do this with minimally invasive techniques, it is better to prevent damage when possible. Don’t ignore your pain. See your podiatrist as soon as possible.

RELATED SERVICES

By accurately diagnosing, treating, and preventing lower leg, foot, and ankle conditions and ailments, we get you on your way back to healthy feet!Β  We use conservative care and only activate surgeries when absolutely necessary.Β  Here are some of the foot and ankle conditions we treat. Get that peace of mind, and reach out and book an appointment with us today!

ANKLE SPRAIN

BUNION/HALLUX VALGUS

MORTON'S NEUROMA

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

TESTIMONIAL

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Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.

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Everyone was super friendly. Doctor Rick’s explained everything thoroughly.

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Dr Bell was incredibly thorough and personable. Gave me great information and useful information for my next steps. A great experience!

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“Fast, professional, and very clean office. I was checked in and seen within 10 minutes of my scheduled time. Dr. Ricks was straight to the point but thorough. The front desk staff was also incredibly helpful.

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All of the staff are super welcoming and professional! Bianca took excellent care in getting my X-rays. Dr. Ricks was thorough in explaining my diagnosis and next steps. Highly recommended!!

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Well before I came in today to see Dr. Ricks my foot in pain was 9/10 and now I feel good πŸ™πŸΏπŸ€© thanks

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