Laser Fungal Toenail Treatment in Minneapolis

What is Laser Treatment?
Technology and effectiveness of laser treatments in many areas of medicine has improved greatly in the last 30 years from eyes to feet. In the 1980s laser was used to create holes or channels in the nail (called fenestration) to allow topical treatments better access to the fungus. This process did not do much to improve the effectiveness of the topical treatment and was pretty expensive.

Specific Wavelengths Kill Fungus
Fast forward to the 21st century - Laser technology has improved immensely. Lasers now allow the use of a specific wavelength which will target and kill toenail fungus. Now, instead of creating holes in the nails, new lasers focus directly on the fungus, in essence, the laser heats the fungus to kill it without burning or damaging the nail or skin surrounding the infected area. This use of lasers to treat fungal nail is gaining acceptance among podiatrists and dermatologists in the United States.

Clinical Trials
The results of few small clinical trials looking at the effectiveness of laser treatment of fungal nail infection have been positive. It will take time to learn if these early successes continue with larger clinical trials and wider use with the general public.

Takes Just a Few Minutes
The laser kills the fungus that lives in and under the toenail or fingernail. The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin. There is a warming sensation and some patients may feel a pinprick. Just walk in and walk out. The laser nail fungus procedure only takes 15-20 minutes. Shoes and nail polish can be worn immediately after the treatment.

Minimal Side Effects
This method of treatment is much more expensive than oral or topical techniques but has two possible advantages. First, unlike oral medication, laser treatment has almost no side effect. The second advantage is the possibility of a much shorter course of treatment. It must be made clear, laser (or any other treatment) is not guaranteed to cure fungal toenail infection. The risk with laser treatment is primarily financial while the reward is a faster route to healthier toenails.

After Laser Treatment
After laser treatment is complete and, over time, the fungus appears to have retreated Affiliated Foot and Ankle prescribes an ongoing treatment of topical ointments. For the best chance of success a patient should use topical ointments along with good hygiene. Good hygiene includes: keeping feet dry, changing socks twice each day and not wearing the same shoes every day.

Fungal Toenail Infection info