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By Dr. Andrew Franklin, DPM, PH.D
Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, affects millions of people each year, causing discolored, thickened, and sometimes painful nails. At Ocala Podiatry, Dr. Andrew Franklin understands how this common condition can impact your confidence and quality of life. The good news is that with proper treatment, you can restore your nails to health and prevent the infection from spreading.
Understanding Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus occurs when microscopic fungi infiltrate the nail bed through tiny cuts or separations between the nail and nail bed. These organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, making your feet particularly vulnerable, especially if you frequently wear closed-toe shoes, visit public pools or gyms, or have minor skin injuries around your toenails.
The infection typically begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. As it progresses, the fungus can cause your nail to discolor, thicken, and develop crumbling edges. Without treatment, the condition can spread to other toenails and even your fingernails, making early intervention crucial.
Professional Treatment Options at Ocala Podiatry
Dr. Franklin offers comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to the severity of your infection and your overall health. During your consultation, he will examine your nails and may take a small sample to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific type of fungus involved.
Topical Antifungal Medications
For mild to moderate infections, Dr. Franklin may prescribe topical antifungal medications. These prescription-strength treatments are applied directly to the affected nail and surrounding skin. While topical solutions can be effective, they require consistent application over several months and work best when the infection hasn’t penetrated deeply into the nail bed.
Oral Antifungal Medications
Oral antifungal medications represent one of the most effective treatment options for toenail fungus. These prescription medications work from the inside out, helping your body grow a new, healthy nail free of infection. Dr. Franklin carefully evaluates each patient’s medical history before prescribing oral antifungals, as they may interact with certain medications and require periodic blood tests to monitor liver function.
Treatment typically lasts three to four months, though you’ll need to wait for the infected portion of the nail to grow out completely, which can take up to a year. The success rate for oral antifungals is significantly higher than topical treatments alone.
Laser Therapy
Ocala Podiatry may offer advanced laser treatment for toenail fungus, a cutting-edge option that uses focused light energy to penetrate the nail and destroy the fungus without damaging surrounding tissue. This painless procedure typically requires multiple sessions and can be an excellent choice for patients who cannot take oral medications due to other health conditions.
Nail Removal
In severe cases where the infection causes significant pain or hasn’t responded to other treatments, Dr. Franklin may recommend temporary or permanent nail removal. This procedure allows direct application of antifungal medication to the nail bed and gives a healthy nail the opportunity to grow back.
Prevention Strategies
Dr. Franklin emphasizes that preventing recurrence is just as important as treating the initial infection. He recommends several practical strategies to keep your feet fungus-free:
Keep your feet clean and thoroughly dry, especially between the toes. Wear moisture-wicking socks and change them daily or whenever they become damp.
Choose breathable shoes and alternate pairs to allow them to dry completely between uses. Trim your toenails straight across and keep them at a moderate length. Wear protective footwear in public showers, pools, and locker rooms. Avoid sharing nail clippers, shoes, or towels with others.
If you have diabetes, circulatory problems, or a weakened immune system, regular foot inspections and prompt treatment of any nail changes become even more critical.
Schedule Your Consultation
Don’t let toenail fungus diminish your quality of life or prevent you from enjoying activities you love. Dr. Andrew Franklin and the team at Ocala Podiatry are committed to providing personalized, effective treatment solutions that address both the infection and the underlying factors that contributed to it.
With the right treatment plan and preventive care, you can achieve clear, healthy nails and reduce your risk of future infections. Contact Ocala Podiatry today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Franklin and take the first step toward healthier feet and nails. Your journey to confident, fungus-free feet starts with a simple phone call.
About Dr. Andrew Franklin, DPM, Ph.D
Dr. Andrew Franklin, DPM, Ph.D., moved from Essex, UK to the US in 2007, completing his post-doctorate in Organic Chemistry at FSU. He studied Podiatric Medicine at Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine and completed surgical residency at Cleveland Clinic. Relocating to Ocala in 2018, he opened Ocala Podiatry in December 2023. This board-certified podiatrist emphasizes patient education and teamwork. Married with two boys, he enjoys pickleball, sports, traveling, and outdoor activities.
(352) 234-4124
ocalapodiatry.com
5481 Southwest 60th St Unit 502,
Ocala, FL 34474