Toenail fungal infection

Caring for a toenail fungal infection is a combination of good hygiene practices, topical treatments, and sometimes, medical intervention.

Main podiatrist toenail fungal infection treatment options include:

1. Lacuna method of puncturing holes in the nails
2. Laser Treatment
3. Total nail removal and application of antifungal
4. Terbinafine oral tablets
5. Total nail removal

Here are some important steps to follow to obtain the best results with any fungal toenail treatment:

1. Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry:

• Wash your feet regularly with anti-fungal soap and water, paying special attention to the affected toenails. We recommend Defence Soap
• Dry your feet thoroughly, including between the toes. Apply methylated spirits or antifungal solution if needed
• If you have very sweaty feet (hyperhidrosis) we recommend regular footbaths using potassium permanganate crystals every 3 days

2. Nails:

• Trim your toenails cutting away any area that is not attached to the nail bed
• Use clean and sanitized nail clippers.
• Keeping nails trimmed helps avoid more damage to the nail
• Avoid using nail polishes

3. Antifungal Medications:

• Over-the-counter terbinafine sprays can be applied to the affected toenail. We recommend Lamasil.
• Applying antifungal (terbinafine) creams around the rest of the foot following product instructions

4. Footwear rules for toenail fungal infection:

• Wear breathable footwear to reduce moisture and create an environment less conducive to fungal growth.
• Change socks regularly, especially if they become damp. Make sure they are good breathable socks
• Avoid walking barefoot / thongs / open shoes in public places where the risk of infection is higher.
• Clean your footwear regularly using cold water and antiseptic/antifungal wash such as Canesten wash
• Let your shoes dry out each time before putting them on
• Avoid being barefoot in enclosed shoes.
• Always wear clean socks.
• Make sure they are good breathable socks that contain antimicrobials. We recommend lightfeet
• Make sure you have laced-up shoes with a finger width between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Should be measured when standing.

5. Patience and Persistence:

• Nail fungal infection can take time to resolve. Be patient and consistent with your care routine. To see maximum effect you should be following treatment for 6-12 months.

6. Nail Damage:

• It’s important to note that fungal infections can cause irreversible damage to the toenail. Once the fungal infection has gone it may still not look 100% better.No treatment is guaranteed.

7. Your Health:

• Your medical history has a big impact on your feet and your nails. Make sure you have regular blood tests and stay on top of your health.
• Exercise regularly to maintain good blood flow to your feet and legs
• Maintain a good diet to help keep your immune system at its best.
• A reduced immune system, poor blood flow and a big medical history will reduce the results of treatment.

Contact us today if you have any further questions.

What to Expect From Toenail fungal infection at Ace Health Centre

Patients who book Toenail fungal infection with our team get a clinic-grade assessment, a clear plain-language plan, and a structured progression rather than a one-off appointment. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where relevant, so you are not bouncing between clinics. Authoritative information on this topic is also available from Australian Podiatry Association if you would like to read further before booking. As a result, you walk in informed and walk out with a plan you understand.

For more on what we do, see our main service page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toenail fungal infection

Do I need a referral to book? No referral is needed for our private services. Patients with a GP Chronic Disease Management plan can access bulk-billed sessions where eligible.

Is it covered by private health funds? Most private health extras with the relevant cover offer a rebate. We HICAPS-process on the spot so you walk out knowing your gap.

How soon can I be seen? We keep same-week and same-day slots open for urgent presentations. Online booking shows live availability across all clinicians.

Book Your Toenail fungal infection Appointment

Ready to get started? Call (07) 5572 6222 or book online. In addition, new patients can use our no-gap initial consult — straightforward, no surprises.