Fungal toenails, or onychomycosis, are a common condition that can lead to thickened, discoloured, and brittle nails. They can be difficult to manage without professional care, but the good news is that effective treatments are available. At The Functional Podiatrist in Richmond, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Treatment Options for Fungal Nails
1. Topical Antifungal Solution with Manual Debridement
For milder infections, we combine manual thinning of the nail with the application of a topical antifungal solution. Thinning improves the penetration of the antifungal, making it more effective. This treatment is non-invasive, requiring regular appointments to manage the infection and monitor progress.
2. Conservative Treatment: Chemical Avulsion with Urea
For thick, damaged nails, we use a urea-based treatment to soften and break down the infected nail. This allows us to safely remove the affected parts without surgery, reducing pain and improving the appearance of the nail. This conservative option is ideal for patients looking to avoid invasive procedures while addressing severe nail infections.
3. Surgical Total Nail Avulsion
For severe or recurring fungal infections, we may recommend the surgical removal of the entire nail. This procedure involves safely removing the nail under local anaesthetic and treating the nail bed with topical creams to prevent reinfection. While more invasive, this option is highly effective for persistent cases where other treatments have failed.
4. Collaboration with Your GP for Oral Antifungal Medication
In cases where the fungal infection is widespread or resistant to other treatments, we work with your GP to prescribe oral antifungal medication. These medications target the infection systemically and can be particularly effective when combined with regular podiatry care.
Why a Tailored Approach Matters
Each case of fungal toenails is unique, requiring a treatment plan that considers the severity of the infection, the condition of the nail, and your individual preferences. At The Functional Podiatrist, we carefully assess your nails during a consultation and recommend the most appropriate treatment to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Contact Us Today!
Contact The Functional Podiatrist to schedule an appointment and let us help you put your best foot forward!
02035760630