Toenail fungus treatment

Toenail fungus is more common than many people realize—affecting up to 20% of the population. Fungal organisms are present all around us, but some individuals are more susceptible due to differences in immune system response. Conditions like athlete’s foot can increase your risk, as can certain health issues such as diabetes, which may lead to more serious foot complications if left untreated.
Fungus thrives in dark, warm, and moist environments—making our shoes an ideal breeding ground. Even minor nail injuries can provide an entry point for infection, allowing fungal spores to invade and grow beneath the nail.

High-risk environments include:

• Public showers and locker rooms
• Swimming pools
• Nail salons that reuse tools or fail to properly sterilize equipment

If you suspect a fungal infection, early treatment from a trusted podiatrist can prevent worsening and restore your nails. Expert foot care helps you take the first step toward clearer, stronger toenails.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, can affect the health and appearance of your nails. Common signs include:

• Thickened nails
• Brittle, peeling, or crumbly nails
• Discoloration, often yellow or brown
• Nails that may crack, break, or lift away from the toe

While toenail fungus is usually not painful in its early stages, untreated infections can lead to inflammation or infection of the surrounding skin. This can cause discomfort when walking or wearing shoes.

Many patients feel self-conscious about the appearance of their nails, which can affect confidence and daily life. In advanced cases, the fungus can damage the nail bed so severely that nails may partially or completely separate from the skin beneath, making treatment more challenging.

Treating fungal nails can be more challenging than addressing athlete’s foot—especially once the infection penetrates the nail. Traditional treatments like oral and topical medications often fall short. That’s why we offer a more advanced solution: laser therapy.

As a trusted podiatrist in Colorado, Anderson Podiatry Center, we were proud to be the first to bring the FDA-cleared PinPointe Laser to the Rocky Mountain region. This laser was the first specifically designed for toenail fungus treatment and has helped us successfully treat even the most stubborn cases. With years of experience and trusted technology, we deliver expert foot care you can count on—for healthier, clearer nails.

Laser therapy offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments for toenail fungus. Here’s why many patients trust this option:

• No toxic meds—avoid 12-week oral antifungals and side effects.
• Pain-free with no downtime.
• Precise laser targets fungus without harming skin.
• Thick nails smoothed for better results and appearance.

Protect your nails with these simple foot care habits, recommended by our trusted Colorado podiatrists:

• Keep feet dry and change damp socks during the day.
• Let shoes air out between uses.
• Avoid sharing nail clippers, socks, or shoes.
• Choose salons that sterilize tools properly.
• Wear shower shoes in public pools or locker rooms.