fungus prevention tips Archives - New England Podiatry

Winter’s coming, and while we bundle up to stay warm, our feet often pay the price. Trapped in damp socks and shoes, they become a breeding ground for toenail fungus.

If you’ve tried over-the-counter remedies or topical medications with little success, you’re not alone. Many people find these treatments offer temporary relief but fail to address the root cause of the problem.

In this blog post, the team at New England Podiatry wants to tell you about an option that actually works: PinPointe Laser Treatments!

The Frustration of Recurrence

Topical treatments fall short because they can’t penetrate the nail plate to reach the underlying fungus.

With a paltry success rate of 10-15%, they’re a sure route to frustration and recurrence.

Oral medications can be effective, but they come with potential side effects and may not be suitable for everyone.

Even worse, a 30-60% success rate is only possible with strict adherence.

PinPointe Laser: A Targeted Solution

The PinPointe Laser offers a revolutionary approach to treating toenail fungus.

This FDA-cleared laser technology targets and destroys the fungus that causes the infection without harming the surrounding nail or skin!

Here’s how it works:

The laser light penetrates the nail plate and reaches the fungus embedded within it.
The laser energy heats and destroys the fungal cells, effectively killing the infection.
The healthy nail is left to grow back, free from the unsightly effects of the fungus.

Advantages of PinPointe Laser Treatment:

High Success Rate: Clinical studies have shown that PinPointe Laser treatment has a success rate of 70-80% in eliminating toenail fungus, often with just one or two treatments.
Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is typically well-tolerated. No anesthesia, minimal discomfort, and no downtime.
Safe and Effective: The laser targets the fungus specifically, leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed.

Don’t let toenail fungus keep you from putting your best foot forward! If you’re tired of recurring infections, consult with us today.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment.

Summer is here, and we’re sure you have plenty of fun-filled activities planned, like long days at the beach or breezy hikes in the woods. This can bring a lot of excitement but also a lot of sweat. Sweaty feet create a perfect environment for foot fungus to grow and take over. How can you avoid a fungal foot infection this summer? Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Foot Fungus?

Athlete’s foot, also known as tenia pedis, doesn’t just affect athletes – it can infect anyone with sweaty feet. This fungus loves to live in warm, moist areas, especially between your toes. Although the fungus is contagious, it is very treatable.

Do You Have Foot Fungus?

Below are some of the top signs and symptoms:

Stinging, itchy, or burning feeling between toes and, at times, on the soles of your feet.
Blisters
Cracking or peeling of the skin.
Swelling
Dry skin between your toes and the sides or soles of your feet.

How Can You Prevent Foot Fungus?

It’s much easier to prevent a fungal infection than to treat one! Keep these tips in mind as you move through summer:

Change socks regularly
Wear slippers or flip-flops in public areas, especially pools and gyms
Do not share shoes
Let your feet breathe as often as possible
Keep bathroom surfaces clean, and do not share towels to avoid spreading to other family members
Air your shoes out and alternate footwear
Wash and dry feet daily
Wear breathable shoes
Wash socks, bedding, and towels in water that’s 140 degrees F or higher
Disinfect shoes with Clorox wipes

What Treatments Are Available?

It’s always a good idea to consult a qualified podiatrist first to confirm your foot symptoms, especially with diabetic patients. But if you’re convinced you have athlete’s foot and are desperate for some at-home help, here are some things you can try while you wait for your next appointment with us:

Over-the-counter antifungal powders or sprays.
Certain foot soaks can help, such as tea tree oil, cider vinegar, or baking soda, but always check with your doctor first.
Doctor-prescribed medications.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax treat various foot and ankle conditions. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.