Toenail Conditions
PODIATRIST, FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON, FOOT & ANKLE DOCTOR SERVING ROSEDALE, WOODSIDE, FOREST HILLS, QUEENS, WOODMERE, INWOOD, LAWRENCE, CEDARHURST, HEWLETT & BROOKLYN, NY AREA
What is Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis)?
Do crumbly, thickened toenails have you hiding your feet?
Chances are you may have fungal toenails, a condition also known as onychomycosis. Fungal toenails are caused by an organism that grows in and under the nail.
The fungus likes to grow in warm, moist places like your shoes. Many patients pick up fungal toenail infections in the gym locker room, from a nail salon, wet shoes or from trauma. Fungus can stay in the nails for many years and can be passed from one person to another.
Advance Foot & Ankle Solutions specializes in leading edge treatment for fungal nails.
There are currently three treatment modalities for this condition. They include topical medications, oral medications, which can have some serious side effects; and the newest modality which is laser therapy.
Laser Therapy For Toenails
Leading-edge technology to safely and effectively treat fungal nail.
At our podiatry practice, Advance Foot & Ankle Solutions, we use a laser which focuses a concentrated beam of laser light through the nail to eradicate the fungus living under and in the nail. The procedure is performed right in our office, requires no anesthesia and is painless. Most patients require only three treatments and can once again enjoy wearing open toed shoes.
If you're tired of looking at those unsightly toenails or have questions, please schedule a consultation to determine if you are a candidate for laser therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Toenail Fungus
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Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, may cause yellow or white discoloration, thickening, brittleness, crumbling, or separation of the nail from its bed. Because other conditions can look similar, Dr. Sadhnani evaluates affected nails to determine whether a fungal infection is present.
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Yes. Fungal infections can spread between toenails and to surrounding skin, particularly in warm, moist environments. Sharing nail clippers, walking barefoot in communal areas, and wearing damp shoes may increase exposure. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help limit infection and prevent additional nail damage.
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Treatment options may include prescription topical medications, oral antifungal medications, nail trimming or debridement, and laser therapy. Advance Foot & Ankle Solutions offers laser treatment for fungal nails. The best approach depends on infection severity, medical history, nail involvement, and patient preferences.
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Laser treatment may improve the appearance of some fungus-affected toenails, but results vary, and complete eradication of infection is not guaranteed. Evidence for lasting fungal cure is limited. Dr. Sadhnani can discuss laser therapy alongside established antifungal treatments and recommend an appropriate approach.
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Toenail fungus treatment requires patience because healthy toenails grow slowly. Even after an infection responds to treatment, it may take 12–18 months for a severely affected toenail to grow out completely.
Following treatment instructions and preventing reinfection are important for long-term improvement.
Ingrown Toenails
Advance Foot & Ankle Solutions specialize in virtually painless and quick correction of ingrown toenails.
An ingrown toenail occurs when a corner of the nail grows into the flesh of the toe, causing redness and swelling, followed by pain and often infection. Ingrown toenails can occur due to improper trimming of the toenail, trauma or genetic factors.
Common Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Inflammation
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Drainage
Treatment for ingrown toenails is performed by gently numbing the toe, and then removing the offending corner of the nail. If you have chronic ingrown toenails, we can remove the root in the office to permanently prevent re-growth of the ingrown portion of the nail. Your treatment will be gentle and virtually painless, and we'll get you back to your normal activities. Request an appointment with our Foot Doctor and get pain relief from your ingrown toenail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ingrown Toenails
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An ingrown toenail develops when the nail edge grows into surrounding skin, causing irritation, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight shoes, repetitive pressure, and inherited nail shape. Early treatment can relieve discomfort and help prevent recurring problems.
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Mild ingrown toenails sometimes improve with reduced pressure, properly fitting footwear, and gentle care. However, persistent pain, swelling, or infection may require professional treatment. Avoid digging into the nail or attempting aggressive removal at home, particularly if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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A podiatrist can remove the portion of the nail pressing into the skin, typically using local anesthesia. For recurring ingrown toenails, treatment of the affected nail root may help prevent regrowth along that edge.
Dr. Sadhnani recommends treatment based on severity and recurrence.
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Trim toenails straight across without cutting deeply into the corners. Wear shoes with sufficient toe room, avoid repeated pressure, and maintain proper foot hygiene.
If ingrown toenails repeatedly develop despite preventive measures, a podiatrist can discuss procedures that reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
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Signs of infection may include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, or drainage around the nail. If these symptoms develop, schedule a podiatry evaluation. Patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or impaired circulation should seek prompt care because even minor nail infections can become serious.