Toenail fungus and shoe hygiene have more in common than you might think. Toenail fungus is a contagious, unsightly condition. Of the many methods of preventing toenail fungus, shoe hygiene is one of the most effective. To put it simply, if you make sure there is never any fungus in or around your shoes, you should never catch a fungus!
Tips on Proper Hygiene
The most important thing to do for proper shoe hygiene is to never share shoes with other people. Even if it is someone you trust, you could unknowingly catch fungus from their shoes. This would easily happen if you share shoes with someone before they realize they have the fungus. Fungi love shoes because they’re dark, enclosed, and often sweaty. Sharing socks carries an even bigger risk of catching fungus. Socks are in very close contact with your toes, and are often damp. This makes them the perfect breeding ground for fungus!
Going barefoot in public areas like changing rooms is also unwise. It is recommended to always wear shoes when your feet are touching a heavily trafficked surface. This protects your feet from any fungus strangers might leave in their tracks.
Wearing well-fitting shoes that aren’t too tight will also improve shoe hygiene. When shoes are too tight, the material of the shoe pushes up against the toes allowing for transfer of fungus. Shoes can also be aired out in between wears, and antifungal shoe sprays can also be purchased to regularly kill fungus in your shoewear. Lastly, make sure to always change your socks! Especially after physical activity, your own socks can harbor fungus. Changing your socks immediately after getting them dirty will improve your shoe hygiene and reduce chances of a fungal infection.
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus
If you think you have a toenail fungus, you should seek out a FDA approved treatment by a licensed podiatrist. Topical solutions and oral medication are not as effective as laser treatment. The best treatment available is the PinPointe laser, which cures the fungus in just one treatment.
Our nail doctor in Medford, MA recommends this laser treatment. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, it is not painful. To schedule a consultation, give us a call at 1-(800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information.
