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Now that it is summer, hundreds of people flock to the beach every day to enjoy some fun in the sun. As you gear up for the beach by putting on your favorite flip-flops, to your dismay, you may notice that you have fungus on one or all of your toenails. If this has happened to you, don't fret. Your podiatrist in Quincy can help eliminate and prevent unattractive fungal toenails.
Toenail Fungus One of the most common disorders of the foot is a fungus infection of the toenail. Toenail fungus affects about half of Americans by the age of 70. These unsightly infections occur when microscopic fungi gain entry through a small trauma in the nail and grow in the warm, moist environment inside your socks and shoes. Some contributing factors to the development of nail fungus include: * A history of athlete's foot
* Injury to the nail bed
* Sports/shoe trauma
* Excessive perspiration
* Diabetes
* Circulatory problems
* Immune-deficiency conditions Toenail fungus can be picked up in damp areas such as public gyms, shower stalls or swimming pools. Once you pick the fungus up, it can be passed to your family members as well. Fungal infections can also affect your fingernails in addition to your toenails, but it is more difficult to treat your toenail fungus because toenails grow much more slowly than fingernails. When it comes to protecting your feet and nails from harmful infections, prevention is key. The following tips are important to consider when avoiding toenail fungus: * Practice good hygiene
* Inspect feet and toes regularly
* Avoid injuring your nail by cutting it too short
* Wear dry, proper-fitting shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet
* Wear shower sandals when you are at a public pool or shower
What is CoolTouch and how does it Work?
CoolTouch is a non-invasive laser treatment for fungal toenails. The advanced CoolTouch laser emits a brief but gentle burst of light into the targeted area. The laser energy heats the infected tissue creating an environment where fungus cannot survive. Even though some toenails may be infected, the laser treatment is performed on all 10 toenails since it is the nature of this disease to spread and infect other healthy tissues. CoolTouch is the preferred treatment for fungal nails for many reasons including: * Quick, in-office procedure
* Safe and effective treatment
* No anesthesia required
* Virtually painless procedure
* No down time from your regular activities
* Advanced lasers are the most effective treatment for toenail fungus Your toenails will be cleaned and filed prior to the CoolTouch laser treatment. As each toenail is treated with the laser, you will feel a mild, warming sensation immediately followed by a burst of cooling cryogen spray as the laser beam penetrates the toenail, instantly killing the fungus underneath. You may return to your normal activities immediately after treatment and results will show after toenails grow over a 9 to 12 month period. With proper consultation, your Quincy and Dedham podiatrist can educate you about the available treatments for your toenail fungus to keep your feet beach ready. Take a step in the right direction and visit your podiatrist today to eliminate your infection with CoolTouch laser treatment.
Owned and operated by Dr. Marshall Lukoff, Foot Care Specialists, PC, is committed to treating an array of podiatric problems such as heel pain or foot pain with Quincy Shockwave treatment. Dr. Lukoff, podiatrist in Quincy and Dedham, received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine.
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