Thick, discolored, or crumbling toenails? Michigan Avenue Podiatry offers the full spectrum of proven toenail fungus treatments — from FDA-cleared laser therapy to KeryFlex nail restoration — at 4 Chicagoland locations.
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail plate and nail bed, most commonly caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. It affects roughly 10% of the general population and up to 50% of adults over 70. Despite being extremely common, toenail fungus rarely resolves on its own — and tends to worsen and spread without treatment.
The infection typically begins as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail. Over time, it spreads deeper into the nail, causing the nail to thicken, discolor, and become brittle. In advanced cases the nail may separate from the nail bed, emit an odor, and cause discomfort with footwear.
People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or compromised immune systems face higher risk of serious complications from untreated nail fungus, including secondary bacterial infections. Early treatment matters.
Fungal nail infections progress through recognizable stages. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.
The nail changes from its normal pinkish-white to yellow, brown, or white as the fungus colonizes the nail plate and disrupts normal keratin structure.
Infected nails become noticeably thicker and harder to trim. They may crumble at the edges or break off in chunks rather than cutting cleanly.
As the infection progresses, the nail loses its smooth, flat appearance and may curl, lift at the edges, or develop an irregular, ridged surface.
A buildup of dark, powdery material under the nail tip is a classic sign of onychomycosis. The debris consists of fungal elements and nail tissue fragments.
The nail may lift away from the nail bed, starting at the tip. This creates a gap where more fungus and bacteria can accumulate.
Advanced infections may produce a mild odor and cause discomfort when wearing shoes. Pain around the nail edge can indicate secondary bacterial infection.
Michigan Avenue Podiatry offers every proven treatment for nail fungus. The right approach depends on the severity of the infection, the number of nails affected, and your overall health.
Our laser delivers focused energy through the nail plate, heating and destroying the fungal organisms without harming surrounding tissue. No oral medications, no liver concerns, no side effects. Typically 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Clear new nail growth begins appearing at the base within 3 months.
KeryFlex is a flexible, non-porous resin applied over the damaged nail to create a natural-looking, durable nail immediately after treatment. It allows you to leave the office with a great-looking nail while the new nail grows in underneath. Perfect before a vacation, wedding, or any event where you want healthy-looking nails now.
Prescription-strength topical antifungals (such as efinaconazole and tavaborole) offer significantly better nail penetration than OTC products. Best suited for mild-to-moderate infections involving fewer nails, or as maintenance after laser therapy to prevent recurrence.
Oral terbinafine or itraconazole work from the inside out, reaching the nail bed through the bloodstream. Highly effective for widespread or severe infections. Requires lab monitoring for liver function. We prescribe these selectively and monitor carefully throughout the course of treatment.
Nail fungus is progressive. Delaying treatment allows the infection to deepen, spread to other nails, and complicate your overall foot health.
Toenail fungus treatment available at all four of our offices, with same-week appointments.
Don’t let toenail fungus spread or worsen. Our board-certified podiatrists will evaluate your nails, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend the most effective treatment for your situation — starting as soon as this week.
Or call us: (312) 701-0770 (Chicago / Elmhurst) • (708) 799-2900 (Flossmoor / Tinley Park)