Foot problems tend to get worse the longer they are left, and each of the conditions below has a clear treatment path. Mina's treats fungal toenails, ingrown toenails and heel pain from plantar fasciitis.
Where each condition shows up
Fungal toenails and ToeFX
Nail fungus makes toenails thick, discoloured and crumbly, often starting at the tip and spreading back. It lives inside and under the nail, which makes it hard to reach with creams alone.
ToeFX uses a topical gel that is activated by a controlled light. The combination works on the fungus inside the nail without oral antifungal pills. Sessions are short, and the damaged nail is not removed. Instead, clear nail grows in from the base and the affected part is trimmed away as it grows out.
A fungal nail growing out after treatment
- Treatment visitsToeFX sessionsGel and light applied in clinic.
- Early monthsClear nail at the baseNew growth appears near the cuticle.
- Around 6 monthsAbout halfwayClear nail pushes the affected part forward.
- 12 to 18 monthsFully grown outThe big toenail has been fully replaced.
Approximate timings for a big toenail. Smaller toenails grow out sooner.
Ingrown toenails
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail presses into the skin beside it. The area becomes sore and red, and it can become infected. Common causes include cutting nails too short or rounding the corners, tight shoes and nails that curve steeply at the edges.
Treatment for an ingrown toenail
- AssessCheck the nail edge, the skin around it and any sign of infection.
- RelieveFree the nail edge from the skin to take the pressure off.
- TreatCare for the area so the skin can heal.
- PreventAdvice on trimming and footwear to stop it coming back.
Cutting toenails straight across and leaving the corners slightly longer helps stop the problem returning. Shoes with room at the toes reduce pressure on the nail edges.
Plantar fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs under the foot from the heel to the base of the toes and supports the arch. When it becomes irritated, the result is plantar fasciitis. The main symptom is pain under the heel, often at its worst with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while.
Rest, calf and foot stretches, and supportive footwear help many people. When pain persists, PRP is an option at Mina's. Platelet-rich plasma from your own blood is injected near the irritated tissue to support healing. Research on PRP for plantar fasciitis is still growing, and your provider will discuss whether it suits you.
Book a consultation if a nail or heel problem has lasted more than a few weeks. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, have any foot problem checked promptly.