With summer weather in full swing in Pennsylvania, there are more opportunities for sandals and being barefoot for swimming and other summer activities. With so many chances to show off your feet, no one wants to have fungal toenails, an infection that results in thick, discolored, brittle, foul-smelling nails. Nail fungus is caused by small microorganisms that are present all around us in the environment. They thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why the feet are a common area of infection. Often, fungus from athlete’s foot can transfer to the toenails and spread to the nail bed. Although Your Next Step is equipped with advanced laser technology to treat these conditions, it is best to take these precautions to avoid getting them in the first place.

1. Keep nails short and trimmed straight across.
2. Wash your feet daily and make sure they are completely dry before putting on socks or footwear.
3. Wear lightweight and breathable socks and footwear.
4. Avoid being barefoot while walking in public swimming areas, showers, or locker rooms.
5. Wear properly-fitting shoes that do not restrict the toe area.
6. If getting a pedicure, make sure the salon is a reputable place that uses proper sterilization techniques.
7. Sprinkle your footwear with anti-fungal powder, as fungus can live and spread in shoes.
8. Avoid sharing nail clippers with family members.

If you do develop nail fungus, there is an easy, safe, and painless laser treatment offered at Your Next Step that can help you achieve clearer, healthy nails! The procedure is effective, fast, and usually requires only one treatment and zero recovery time. The team of board-certified and qualified podiatrists, Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, at Your Next Step also helps to treat other foot and ankle conditions such as achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, diabetic foot problems, ankle sprains, bunions, and hammertoes. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website and call our offices located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown!