Integrative Nail Fungus Therapy
Utilizing an integrative approach to restore health to the nails
Fungal nail infections can become chronic due to a variety of health factors. The Integrative Nail Fungus Program aims to treat both the infection, as well as contributing factors, to improve the health and recovery of our nails.
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection caused by dermatophytes and yeast
The infection can be exacerbated, or become chronic, due to a variety of factors, including repetitive trauma to the toes, re-exposure to an infection, genetics, reduced circulation to the feet, or a compromised immune system. The Integrative Nail Fungus program aims to identify, and treat, all of these factors.
Applications
The Integrative Nail Fungus Program is utilized to treat nail fungus (fingernails and toenails), and may also be helpful for chronic Athlete’s foot infections.
Health Benefits
Health Benefits of the Integrative Nail Fungus Therapy Program
Proper Diagnosis
Our Doctors utilize a culture of nail clippings to ensure proper diagnosis of a nail infection.
Improved Nail Quality and Growth
Debridement, laser therapy, and a topical antifungal are utilized to directly treat the infection, promoting healthy nail growth.
Improvements in overall health
Our approach to nail fungus is Integrative; if your Doctor suspects decreased circulation and/or immune system activity are playing a role, they will work together with you to ensure these factors are addressed, and improved.
Our Approach
An Integrative Approach to Nail Fungus
The Integrative Nail Fungus Program employs a functional medicine approach to nail fungus. It involves:
- Mechanical treatment of the fungus, using both debridement and laser therapy
- Topical treatment of the fungus, via a topical antifungal aftercare system
- Identification and treatment of contributing factors, such as improper footwear, re-exposure to infection, reduced circulation, or immune system dysregulation
After an initial series of 4 debridement and laser treatments, at 2-4 week intervals, a 2-3 month break is recommended to allow for new nail growth. More severe infections may warrant ongoing treatments, as prescribed by your Doctor.
Each patient is unique; your doctor will cater the Nail Fungus Program to meet your specific needs. Your treatment program may include:
- Diode laser therapy to the nail bed
- Medical podiatry drill debridement
- At-home aftercare kit
- Specific supplements and/or medications
- Intravenous nutrient support
First Visit
What does your first visit look like?
Your first visit is the opportunity for you to share your health goals, and for your Doctor to gather vital health information that will help them to determine the root cause of your health concerns, and the best treatment plan for you.
One
Complete Medical & Lifestyle History
Your Doctor will take a complete history, gathering details regarding your current and past health concerns, lifestyle, as well as current supplements and medications.
Two
Testing
Your Doctor will take a sample of toenail clippings to be sent for analysis. Please do not clip ahead of time, as your Doctor will complete the clipping in-office.
Additionally, they may recommend blood and/or stool testing to review systemic levels of fungus.
Three
Physical Exam
Within your first visit, your Doctor will also perform a focused physical exam. This may include basic vitals, Applied Kinesiology, or inspection and palpation of specific areas of concern.
Four
Outline of the Program
If your doctor believes you are a good candidate for the Integrative Nail Fungus Program, they will review the entire program with you, including scheduling, changes to medications and/or supplements, dietary changes, potential side effects, contraindications, and frequently asked questions.
After completion of these steps, and review of your test results, treatment sessions can be booked with our Patient Care Coordinators.
Frequently Asked Questions
View all FAQs
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Do I need a referral to take part in the Integrative Nail Fungus Program?
No, you can book-in directly with Dr Jam Caleda to begin the Integrative Nail Fungus Program without a referral.
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What treatments are included within the Integrative Nail Fungus Program?
Your Doctor may utilize mechanical debridement, with debridement and laser therapy, a topical antifungal aftercare system, as well as treatments to improve your overall health, such as supplements, intravenous therapy, joint manipulations (adjustments), and dietary changes.
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Does MSP cover the cost of Integrative Nail Fungus Program visits?
Integrative Nail Fungus Program visits are booked with a Naturopathic Doctor. If you qualify for Premium Assistance through MSP, you may qualify for a small percentage of your visit cost to be covered by MSP. If you do not qualify for Premium Assistance, MSP does not cover any costs associated with naturopathic visits.
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Do Extended Health Plans cover tests ordered by my ND as part of the Integrative Nail Fungus Program?
Certain Extended Health plans cover costs of tests ordered by NDs. We recommend contacting your Extended Healthcare provider prior to your visits to determine your coverage.