Toenail Trouble: Fungus, Trauma, and What to Do

Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Start Treatment for Clearer Nails by Summer

When it comes to toenail problems, many people try to hide them in shoes and hope they’ll just go away. But issues like nail fungus and trauma don’t just disappear—and if you want healthy, clear nails in time for sandal season, fall is the best time to start treatment.

Let’s break down the most common types of toenail trouble and what you can do to restore your nail health.

 

Fungal Toenails: What to Know

Fungal toenails (onychomycosis) are extremely common and frustrating. The infection often begins as a small yellow or white spot under the tip of the nail, but over time, it can spread deeper—causing the nail to thicken, discolor, crumble, or even lift off the nail bed.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus:

  • Yellow, white, or brown discoloration

  • Thickened or brittle texture

  • Distorted nail shape

  • Foul odor or debris under the nail

Treatment Options We Offer:

  • Lunula Laser Therapy – A safe, pain-free laser that targets fungus without damaging healthy tissue. Perfect for patients who want to avoid oral medications.

  • Topical Antifungal Kits – Prescription-strength topical treatments paired with tools to help penetrate the nail.

  • Nail Restoration (KeryFlex) – For patients with severe nail damage, this cosmetic solution can restore the appearance of the nail during treatment.

 

Toenail Trauma: More Than Just a Bruise

Nail trauma can happen from stubbing your toe, dropping something on it, or wearing shoes that are too tight. Trauma may cause the nail to thicken, change color, fall off, or grow in oddly—sometimes making it look like a fungal infection even when it’s not.

Signs of Nail Trauma:

  • Black, blue, or red discoloration under the nail

  • Nail lifting or falling off

  • Pain, tenderness, or pressure

  • Odd nail growth months after injury

What to Do About It:

  • Have your toenail examined to rule out fungal infection or deeper issues.

  • Protect the nail and avoid tight shoes or pressure.

  • We can guide regrowth with proper care—or recommend nail restoration if appearance is a concern.

Why Fall Is the Best Time to Start

Toenail treatments—especially for fungus—can take several months to show full results. Nails grow slowly, so starting now gives you a better chance of having clear, healthy nails by summer.

Plus, closed-toe season is the perfect time to:

  • Commit to daily topical treatment or laser therapy

  • Let nails heal without the pressure of showing them off

  • Avoid reinfection from sweaty summer shoes and public areas

 

Don’t Wait to Get Help

Whether you’re dealing with fungal infection, injury-related nail changes, or just unsure what’s going on—our team at Third Coast Foot & Ankle is here to help. We’ll assess your nail health, recommend the right treatment plan, and get you on track toward healthier, clearer nails.

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