03/31/2023
Let’s talk Fungus:
Fungus is so hard to treat and is dependent on whether it is a result of trauma or not:
- If it is not a result of trauma it takes quite a bit of patience to get rid of.
- If it is a result from trauma it often will not completely resolve.
Fungus creates a hardened cap over the affected nail so most topical treatments have a hard time penetrating - in my services I reduce the fungal nail with a podiatry drill that uses a disposable sanding band which exposes the moist fungal area leaving it open to dry out properly and making it more receptive to your treatment of choice.
I also cut back and out any nail that is effected until I get to good healthy nail getting rid of anything dead or dying that could be affecting new good growth.
*For this step I use single use disposables or autoclave steam sterilized equipment following provincial guidelines and regulations for surgical instruments.*
If you have coverage your best option is seeing your family physician for a topical prescription (they range from 80.00 to 150.00 a bottle without coverage), and if you’re looking for something more affordable I sell PodoExpert Nail Tincture that is 30.00 a bottle (lasting on average 6-8weeks).
With any topical fungal treatment, consistency is key and the goal is to apply the topical treatment of your choice twice daily for the time it takes for the nail to completely grow out (approximately 12-18months).
*For nails that have been surgically removed the odds of it ever growing back normal is quite slim.*
It’s also very important to keep your feet clean and dry, change your socks daily and whenever they may get wet, don’t wear socks to bed, never put your feet into wet shoes etc.
It is a slow, painful process, but you can successfully have results if you’re determined!
If you’d like to get started on this journey - give me a call or send me a text (250-427-1110)
- Shelley, LPN, AFCN.
