Adjacent to the City of Laguna Hills lies Laguna Woods, a small town of 16,000 residents in north Orange County, California. The majority of the residents of Laguna Woods live within the gated community of Laguna Woods Village, a private retirement community once known as Leisure World.
Peace & Quiet in Laguna Woods
The City of Laguna Woods was incorporated in 1999 in order to give the residents a stronger voice in local development. Nestled in the beautiful Saddleback Valley, peaceful Laguna Woods is just minutes from the vibrant beaches of Southern California. The crime rate is exceptionally low and the city doesn’t bother maintaining their own police department. Rather, they contract with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to provide the little policing services that they need.
An Active Lifestyle for Retired People
Laguna Woods Village is a gated community for people over 55. According to their website, Laguna Woods Village is one of the most recreational-focused communities in the United States, offering resort-style amenities such as two golf courses, a ten-court tennis facility, an equestrian center, and more than 250 clubs and various organizations to provide ample opportunities for residents to meet new people and make friends.
Voted the Best Senior Living Community by the Orange County Register, Laguna Woods Village offers residents seven separate clubhouses with exceptional amenities located at each one, including restaurants, fitness centers, swimming pools and more!
Swimming at Laguna Woods
There are five separate swimming pools and four hot tubs available to residents of Laguna Woods Village. Each pool is located at a different Clubhouse and each offers slightly different advantages.
The pool at Clubhouse 5 offers handicapped access and is entirely shallow, permitting those who are not strong swimmers an opportunity to enjoy some water fitness, as well. The water in pool 5 is also better for those with sensitive skin, as it is a hybrid pool, utilizing both saltwater and chlorine.
Residents are permitted to bring their grandchildren to swim at the pool at Clubhouse 2 from 12 PM to 2 PM, and to the pool at Clubhouse Six from 12 PM to 4 PM during the summer.
The clubs of Laguna Woods
The residents of Laguna Woods love to get involved in various clubs and activities. The management of Laguna Woods works to ensure that there are clubs for every interest and activity.
Dancing in Laguna Woods Village
The community offers a number of dancing clubs, including ballroom, traditional, and line dancing clubs. The American Ballroom Dance Club features live music on Friday nights, with a dinner and dance on the third Friday of each month. The club also offers dance lessons, which happen separately from the club dance nights and incur an additional cost.
The International Folk Dance Club is led by Maria Paho-Benson and teaches traditional and folk dances from around the world. The Laguna International Dancers meet on Wednesday and Sunday nights. The group present occasional event dances featuring live music and finger foods.
Toenail Pain Stealing Your Dance?
For Laguna Woods residents with toenail fungus, the pain and discomfort of thick, distorted toenails may be enough to prevent them from enjoying an evening of dancing. While often considered only an aesthetic issue, toenail fungus can cause the toenails to thicken and twist to the point that pain and discomfort make everyday activities difficult for sufferers. But, there are safe and effective treatments for toenail fungus. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is one of the fastest and safest ways to clear toenail fungus and live pain-free.
To see if you’re a candidate for laser treatment for toenail fungus in Laguna Woods, call Dr. Kleis and schedule your consultation today.
Toenail Fungus in Laguna Woods
Toenail fungus is caused by microbes that exist everywhere in the environment and thrive in moist, dark places. Fungi, mold, and yeast can all infect the nails and these microorganisms are nearly always present in environments with sufficient moisture and lack of sunlight. Moist, dark areas are prime places for fungi microbes to thrive, but they exist in nearly every environment, and we are always coming into contact with them.
Toenail Fungus Pain
The fungi, mold, and yeast that cause toenail fungus infections do not cause pain in and of themselves. However, if left untreated, the nail will often become thick and distorted, making the wearing of shoes extremely uncomfortable and causing pain when standing or walking.
Aside from being uncomfortable, the fungus infected nail will sometimes lift off the nail bed, creating a gap where bacteria can grow. Bacteria cause infections that can be painful and often smell bad. If you have distorted toenails that are causing you pain or have an odor that you can’t seem to get rid of through proper hygiene, you should schedule a visit with Dr. Kleis to have your condition evaluated. Whether you are suffering pain from a toenail fungus infection or a bacterial infection, Dr. Kleis can recommend the appropriate course of action.
Up to 10% of the population is estimated to suffer from toenail fungus infections. This condition is so common because the microbes that cause the infection are all around us all the time. When we wear tight fighting shoes that trap sweat and moisture next to our skin, we help to create an environment where fungus can take hold on our feet and toenails.
Healthy nails are more resistant to infection from fungus causing microbes. People most at risk for developing toenail fungus are athletes, elderly people, and people with other health conditions that lower their immune system. Some of the most common places to come into contact with toenail fungus are public pools, gyms, and showers, but the microbes are present everywhere in our environment.
Toenail Fungus in Older People
As men and women age, they become more susceptible to a variety of ailments. The cell regeneration slows down and healing doesn’t happen as quickly as it used to. The natural aging process, even for people who are otherwise in excellent health, makes older people more likely to get toenail fungus.
But, being over 55 doesn’t mean you have to give in to toenail fungus or stop showing your toes. Beautiful, healthy nails are possible at any age with laser treatments for toenail fungus. Laser treatments for toenail fungus don’t have any side effects, are not painful, and don’t require anesthesia or pain medication. This makes it appropriate for patients of all ages, including older people with toenail fungus.
The cool laser treatment employed by the LunaLaser application has been proven effective for treating onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, in four separate clinical trials. The laser targets the fungus and stimulates new, clear nail growth using a dual diode delivery mechanism that targets only the infected tissues. The treatments are painless and don’t take more than a half-hour in the physician’s office.
For an evaluation of your onychomycosis and to see if you are a candidate for cool laser treatment for toenail fungus, visit Dr. Kleis. Schedule a consultation today by calling (714) 760-4944
Toenail Fungus In People With Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions like diabetes and heart disease can lower the body’s overall ability to fight infection. Lowered immunity makes it easier for toenail fungus to take hold and grow. In fact, people with diabetes are more than twice as likely to get toenail fungus as the general population. Not only are people with health conditions more likely to get toenail fungus, but they are also less likely to qualify for oral medications to fight it. The possible side effects of oral treatments for toenail fungus make it difficult for people with diabetes, heart conditions, or liver disease to qualify for treatment.
Laser toenail fungus treatment is safe for everyone. The focused, laser technology uses pulses to ensure that the surrounding tissues aren’t harmed and that the treatment remains safe and pain-free. Dr. Kleis uses two different lasers in his office, allowing him to target a wider range of fungus causing organisms. The lasers target only the microbes beneath the nail and don’t harm the surrounding tissues. The treatment is pain-free and doesn’t require an anesthetic. Most patients see improvement in their nails after a single treatment.
If you’re not sure if you’re a candidate for oral anti-fungal treatments for toenail fungus, call Dr. Kleis at (714) 760-4944 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Kleis can schedule laser toenail treatment that won’t put your health at risk!
Lunula Laser Therapy for Toenail Fungus
Dr. Jeffery Kleis employs two lasers in his treatments for toenail fungus, allowing him to target a wider variety of fungus causing microorganisms with no discomfort to the patient. The latest addition to Dr. Kleis’ laser arsenal is the Lunula Laser by Erchonia.
Erchonia is the world leader in low-level laser health application. Erchonia has been conduction research for more than two decades and has worked with leading physicians to develop a line of low-level laser applications that have been proven safe and effective through independent trials.
The Lunula Laser has been given FDA approval for the treatment of toenail fungus. The Lunula produces dual wavelengths which have been enriched by a specially designed delivery mechanism that maximizes the concentration of the beams and the size of the treatment area. This patented approach ensures that the laser will target all of the infected tissues, including the nail bed and surrounding tissues.
The Lunula Laser treatment for toenail fungus is painless and will not cause any discomfort. The patient won’t any kind of heat or sensation, at all. In four separate LunulaLaser trials, there were no complications or side effects reported and 89% of patients responded to the treatment.
How Does Luna Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus Work?
Laser treatments target the infected tissues and trigger cell destruction using the cytotoxic effect of peroxynitrites. Peroxynitrites are produced by the unique combination of wavelengths created by the dual diode delivery system of the Lunula Laser. The 635nm diode produces Nitric Oxide (NO) within the cells, while the 405nm diode produces Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the same cells, at the same time. This combination of NO and ROS combine to create peroxynitrite, which destroys fungal pathogens.
All this is done with no side effects and no discomfort to the patient. Treatments are performed in Dr. Kleis’ office and don’t take more than thirty minutes. To see if you are a candidate for Luna Laser treatment of toenail fungus, call Dr. Kleis’ office and schedule a consultation today.
Thickening Toenails
If you notice that your toenails are getting increasingly thick and difficult to cut, you may have a toenail fungus infection. The microbes that cause toenail fungus flourish in dark, moist places. You can come into contact with the microbes that cause toenail fungus in places like public pools or showers. Wearing tight shoes while doing sweaty work or exercising can also give fungus an opportunity to take root in your toenails.
In the beginning, toenail fungus is difficult to spot, but you may notice that your toenails start to thicken and get more and more difficult to cut. This is a sign that you have a fungus infection in your toenails and should seek treatment.
Dr. Kleis is the leading provider for laser nail fungus treatments in Southern California. He has successfully treated hundreds of patients for toenail fungus infections, restoring their natural beautiful nails. Before your toenails get any thicker, you should schedule a consultation with Dr. Kleis to see if laser toenail treatment is right for you.
How To Cut Thick Toenails
If you have toenails that are thick and difficult to cut, it can be helpful to soak your feet for ten or fifteen minutes in warm water before trying to cut the nails. For extra pampering, try adding some Epsom salts to the warm water, creating a soothing foot bath and softening the nails so they will cut more easily.
Once the nails are softened from the foot soak, use very sharp nail trimmers and make short cuts along the top of the nail, being careful not to split the nail down into the nail bed. Be sure to clean the instruments between each toe so that you don’t spread the toenail fungus infection from one toe to the next.
Laser Treatment for Thick Toenails
Very thick toenails are a sign of toenail fungus infection. If you have thick, unsightly toenails that are difficult to cut or maintain, you may need to treat the cause with toenail fungus treatments using laser technology.
Laser toenail fungus treatment is one of the most effective treatments for thick toenails and is free from any side effects. The treatments are painless and don’t require any anesthesia or pain relief afterward. The lasers treat only the infected tissues, targeting the fungus organisms in a way that won’t damage the healthy tissue around the nail.
Pulsing laser technology avoids overheating the tissue around the nail and ensures that the treatments aren’t uncomfortable. The fungus infection is destroyed, usually in a single session, and your nails will grow out beautiful and normal, no longer thick and ugly.
To inquire about laser treatment for thick toenails, call Dr. Kleis at (714) 760-4944
Toenail Fungus Symptoms
In the beginning, toenail fungus can be hard to spot. It can look like a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail. The first symptoms of toenail fungus can be so slight, however, that most people don’t know they have it until their toenails start to thicken and become misshapen.
Symptoms of toenail fungus infections include:
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Thick Toenails
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Misshapen Toenails
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Discolored Toenails
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Flaky Toenails
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Toenails That Fall Off
Thick, brown toenails are an indication that you likely have a toenail fungus infection. Fungal infections can also give you discolored toenails that are white, green, yellow, or black. Toenails that flake off and crumble are also a sign of toenail fungus.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kleis today to discuss a course of treatment that will have you rushing to put on sandals once again!
Toenail Disorders That Are Not Toenail Fungus
Many things can make your toenails look different than they normally do. Trauma can cause dark discoloration beneath the nail and even result in a lost toenail or fingernail. Vitamin deficiencies can cause ridges in the toenail and melanoma can present as a dark spot or streak beneath the toenail.
If you notice anything different about your toenails and you’re not sure of the cause, it may be wise to seek the advice of an experienced podiatrist like Dr. Kleis, DPM.
Dr. Kleis has decades of experience in diagnosing and treating disorders of the feet and can help you determine the cause of your toenail problems and the best course of treatment. Call Dr. Kleis to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns about your toenails, before a slight problem turns into a bigger one.
Lines or Ridges in Toenails
Lines or ridges in your fingernails or toenails are common and have a variety of causes. Age is one of the leading causes of vertical ridges, which are usually harmless. However, sometimes toenail ridges are signs of underlying conditions that need treatment. Diagnosing the cause of your toenail ridges is key to determining your overall health state and an appropriate course of treatment.
Some causes of vertical ridges in your toenails include:
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Anemia
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Trachyonychia
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Peripheral Vascular Disease
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Horizontal ridges in your toenails may be signs of a serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor. Horizontal ridges may be a sign of:
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Kidney Disease
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Diabetes
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Thyroid Disease
If you have ridges in your toenails that concern you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kleis by calling (714) 760-4944
Brittle Nails
Toenail fungus can cause your toenails to become brittle and break easily. They may also flake and become unsightly. Nail polish can help hide the damage from toenail fungus, but that’s a temporary solution. For healthier, more beautiful toenails, get treatment for your toenail fungus by visiting Dr. Kleis, DPM. Dr. Kleis has years of experience diagnosing and treating toenail fungus and foot disorders. He can help you determine a course of treatment that will have your toes ready for sandals in no time!
Call (714) 760-4944 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kleis and discover how easy it can be to have toenails you’re anxious to show off!
White or Yellow Nails
While white or yellow nails may be a sign of toenail fungus, it can also have other causes. Onycholysis is a separation of the nail from the nail bed. When there is space between the nail and the bed, it will cause a discoloration that is actually the space between the nail, rather than a discoloration of the nail itself. This condition, if it persists, can result in a fungal infection of the toenail, but is not itself a fungal infection. To treat Onycholysis, trim your nails short and keep them clean, but don’t try to clean under the nail itself. Use polish to hide the color of the nail and allow time for the nail to grow out.
Hematoma Under The Nail
If your toenail has experienced trauma recently, you may get a bruise or hematoma under the nail. This can result in a large black, red, or purple area under the nail. This is not a fungal infection and will grow out as your nail grows. It is possible that trauma will result in the loss of your toenail. This is normal and shouldn’t concern you.
However, if you have a black spot under your nail that wasn’t caused by trauma, you should visit a podiatrist or dermatologist to ensure that the spot is not a melanoma.
Green Nails
Green nails can be caused by a bacterial infection called Pseudomonas. This bacteria grows between the nail and nail bed. This type of infection can occur if there is a separation between the nail and nail bed. Pseudomonas infection will give off a foul odor and result in a green discoloration of the toenail. To treat the infection, keep the toenail trimmed short and avoid soaking the toenail in water. As the nail grows out, the separation that is allowing the infection to grow should grow out, as well, eliminating the space for infection to grow. Polish can be used to hide the color as the toenail grows. If the infection persists more than a few months, you may wish to seek treatment from a podiatrist. They can prescribe treatments that aren’t available over the counter.
Pitted Nails
Psoriasis and other skin problems can affect the nail matrix, which is the area from which the nail grows. The nail may also be tan in color. Treatments for this condition will be pursued as an overall treatment of psoriasis.
Swelling and Redness Around the Toenail
An infection of the cuticle around the toenail is called paronychia. The infection is often bacterial and can be treated by soaking the affected foot in warm salt water and otherwise keeping the foot clean and dry. If the infection is chronic, yeast can sometimes infect the area, causing further damage. If you are concerned that the infection is not clearing up well, you may wish to seek the advice of a podiatrist.
Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus FAQs
Can laser treatments get rid of toenail fungus?
Laser treatments for nail fungus have been clinically proven to work. Nail fungus is often eliminated after a single laser treatment. Most patients report that the appearance of their toenails is improved after a single treatment. However, a second or third treatment may be required for severe infections.
How Does Laser Toenail Fungus Treatments Work?
Focused laser light targets the fungal organisms that live in and under the toenail and nail bed. The light heats the tissue, destroying the fungal microbes and killing the toenail fungus.
The laser is pulsed to avoid overheating the surrounding tissues, making the treatment pain-free. No pain relievers will be required after the procedure and no anesthetic is necessary to perform it.
How much do laser treatments for toenail fungus cost?
Costs for laser toenail fungus treatments vary, depending on the severity of the infection and the number of treatments required. When you visit with Dr. Kleis, he will work with you to determine the best course of treatment and go over the expected cost with you.
Can I make payments on laser treatments for nail fungus?
We offer financing through Care Credit. You can fill out an application online and get approval before you schedule your treatments. Make payments you can afford while achieving better nail health!
Do laser treatments work for toenail fungus?
Laser treatments are one of the most effective ways to treat toenail fungus. Often in as little as one treatment, patients will see clear, beautiful nails begin to appear. Toenails grow slowly, however, and the damaged nail must be given time to grow out and be cut off before the whole nail will look perfectly restored.
How many laser treatments does it take to get rid of nail fungus?
Many times a single laser treatment will relieve toenail fungus. In very serious cases, it may take a second or even third treatment. Your podiatrist will be able to let you know how many treatments to expect.
Will Medicare Cover Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus?
Normal foot care is not generally covered by Medicare, though some Medicare supplement plans do provide coverage for additional benefits, including foot care. If a patient has underlying health issues that affect the feet, such as diabetes and diabetic nerve pain, Medicare will sometimes pay for a podiatrist visit to address that condition.
Medicare Part B plans will sometimes include benefits that cover podiatry and could include benefits for laser treatment. Call your plan provider or allow our office to assist you in determining benefit coverage from your Medicare supplement plan. Call Dr. Kleis at (714) 760-4944 to speak to a customer care specialist who can help you determine your Medicare and supplemental benefits.
Does Insurance Pay For Laser Nail Treatments?
While advanced toenail fungus can cause problems with a person’s ability to move and exercise, it is generally considered an aesthetic issue and isn’t covered by insurance. However, plans vary and you should ask your insurance provider or allow one of our customer care specialists to inquire for you. To see if your insurance plan will pay for Laser Nail Treatments, call our office at (714) 760-4944
Does Laser Nail Treatment Hurt?
Laser nail treatments last about thirty minutes. The laser is focused only on the affected toenail and doesn’t harm any healthy tissues. The area will feel warm during treatment, but no pain is experienced. A pulsing laser is used to avoid overheating the area or causing damage to surrounding tissues. No anesthetic is required and, generally, no pain relievers are necessary following treatment. Patients are immediately able to resume regular activities, including wearing shoes and painting their toenails.
How do I Prepare For Laser Nail Therapy?
When arriving for your laser nail treatment appointment, you should ensure that your feet are clean and free of all nail polish. Wear clean socks and plan to spend a minimum of an hour at the office. You will be able to wear your shoes again immediately after the treatment and drive yourself home from the office. If your toenail fungal infection is severe, Dr. Kleis may ask you to schedule an additional treatment session.
For additional questions about preparing for upcoming toenail laser treatments, please call our office at (714) 760-4944