Healthy Habits: New Foot Fungus Solution

I recently had the chance to interview Dr. Chris Horine, from Neat Feet Podiatry Laser Center in San Jose, California, about a new laser treatment called PinPointe for Onychomycosis (foot fungus). Here are his answers:

1) Why don't people talk about foot fungus and treatment more often?

In the United States 36 Million People are affected with fungus infected toenails or onychomycosis. Their nails are thick, discolored and often deformed. People are embarrassed to have their feet exposed or even looked at by their spouse. Previous treatments were ineffective, time consuming and had side effects with medical complications. With failed or dangerous treatments, it is easier to hide in shoes or cover the nails with polish.

2) What advantages does this treatment have over what has typically been prescribed?

Over the counter products and home remedies cannot reach the fungus under and in the nail. The oral pills that were previously used to treat this condition have significant side effects such as a rash, change in taste, nausea and liver problems.

The PinPointe™ FootLaser™ treatment has no side effects or contraindications. People of all ages with any medical condition can be treated with this laser. In November 2010 the FDA approved this as a treatment for patients with nail fungus. The study they accepted demonstrated an increased clear nail in 81% of the 265 cases submitted.

3) Is there any pain involved?

The nail can become warm during the laser treatment but there is no pain or need for anesthesia. Patients can return to all their normal activities and sports as well as have a pedicure immediately after the treatment.

4) What is the success rate? Does the Onychomychosis come back after treatment?

About 80% of the nails treated regrow without fungus. It takes 8 to 18 months for the nails to push out the dead fungus and replace themselves. Because people are always susceptible to this infection the nails can be reinfected over time. For this reason the patients are place on a post treatment prevention program. This involves treating the skin, and nail of their feet and reducing the fungus in footwear.