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Toenail Fungus Specialist

Foot Healers

Podiatrists located in Brentwood, Chesterfield, Creve Coeur, St. Peters, & Webster, MO

If your toenails are thick, yellow, and crumbling, don’t hide them in shoes. The team of podiatrists at Foot Healers offers effective treatments for toenail fungus that will leave you with healthy toenails. Get treatment for toenail fungus at any of the five Foot Healers offices in Brentwood, Chesterfield, Creve Coeur, St. Peters, and Shrewsbury, Missouri. Call or schedule a consultation online today.

Toenail Fungus Q & A

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common and persistent infection. It develops gradually and often goes unnoticed for a long time because it isn’t painful. 

The earliest signs of toenail fungus are small, white specs on your toenail. Over time, as the infection spreads, your nail becomes yellow and thick, and eventually crumbles. Toenail fungus usually starts on one toe but spreads easily to the toes on both feet, and possibly other people. 

While the visible signs affect your toenails, the infection is underneath your nail, in your nail bed. 

How did I get toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus thrives in warm, moist environments like pools, showers, and locker rooms. It’s also extremely contagious. If you have just a small break in your toenail, the fungus can penetrate and infect your toenail. 

Your risk of getting a toenail infection is higher if you have another health issue such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or an immune-deficiency disorder. 

How do you treat toenail fungus?

The podiatrists at Foot Healers offer expert treatments to get rid of fungal toenail infections. Depending on your individual needs, they can prescribe anti-fungal medication and trim away the damaged and infected nail. 

They also offer state-of-the-art FDA-approved laser treatments for toenail fungus. Laser treatment is fast — it takes only around 20 minutes. The pulses of light energy pass through your toenail and target the fungus beneath. 

The laser kills the fungal infection without damaging your nail or the surrounding skin. It does take several months for your healthy nail to grow out.

Your foot doctor also talks to you about prevention. Make sure to trim your toenails straight across, and file them to keep the edges smooth. Keep your at-home nail care tools clean and disinfected. It also helps to avoid tight shoes and socks.

You should always wear shower shoes in shared locker rooms or showers and when you use public pools. Keep your feet clean and dry. If you’re an athlete, make sure to change your socks and shoes after training or competing.

If you notice any signs of toenail fungus, make an appointment right away. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it is to treat. 

Call Foot Healers or make an appointment online today for expert treatments to get rid of toenail fungus.