How often should you trim your toenails. What are the best tools for cutting toenails. How can you prevent ingrown toenails when trimming. What is the correct technique for cutting toenails.

The Importance of Proper Toenail Care

Toenail care is an essential aspect of personal hygiene that often goes overlooked. Did you know that your toenails grow approximately 1.6 millimeters every month? This continuous growth necessitates regular trimming to maintain healthy feet and prevent potential complications.

Proper toenail maintenance is crucial for several reasons:

• Prevents painful conditions like ingrown toenails
• Reduces the risk of infections
• Improves overall foot comfort
• Enhances the appearance of your feet

Neglecting toenail care can lead to various issues, including discomfort when wearing shoes, snagging on socks or bedding, and even more serious complications for individuals with certain health conditions.

Understanding Toenail Growth and Structure

To properly care for your toenails, it’s helpful to understand their growth pattern and structure. Toenails are composed of a protein called keratin, the same material that makes up your hair. They grow from the nail matrix, located at the base of the nail, and extend outward as new cells are produced.

Toenail Growth Rate

How quickly do toenails grow? On average, toenails grow about 1.6 millimeters per month, or approximately 0.05 millimeters per day. This growth rate can vary depending on factors such as:

• Age (growth tends to slow as we get older)
• Nutrition
• Overall health
• Hormonal changes

Understanding this growth rate can help you determine how often you should trim your toenails to maintain optimal length and health.

The Risks of Improper Toenail Cutting

Cutting your toenails incorrectly can lead to various foot problems. These issues range from minor discomfort to more severe complications that may require medical intervention.

Consequences of Cutting Toenails Too Short

When toenails are cut too short, it can result in:

• Increased risk of ingrown toenails
• Pain and sensitivity in the nail bed
• Vulnerability to infections

Problems with Overly Long Toenails

Conversely, allowing toenails to grow too long can cause:

• Discomfort when wearing shoes
• Increased likelihood of breaking or tearing
• Accumulation of dirt and bacteria beneath the nail

Is there an ideal length for toenails? The optimal length for toenails is typically just at or slightly below the tip of the toe. This length provides protection for the toe while minimizing the risk of ingrown nails or other complications.

Essential Tools for Proper Toenail Trimming

Having the right tools is crucial for maintaining healthy toenails. The following items are recommended for safe and effective toenail care:

• Toenail clippers or scissors specifically designed for toenails
• Nail file or emery board
• Foot soak or basin
• Mild soap
• Clean towel
• Moisturizer (optional)

When selecting toenail clippers, opt for a sturdy, sharp pair that can easily cut through the thicker toenail without causing damage. Nail scissors can be a good alternative for those who prefer more precise control during trimming.

Maintaining Your Nail Care Tools

How can you ensure your nail care tools remain hygienic? Follow these steps:

1. Clean tools with soap and water after each use
2. Disinfect tools regularly with rubbing alcohol
3. Store tools in a clean, dry place
4. Replace tools when they become dull or show signs of wear

By keeping your tools clean and well-maintained, you reduce the risk of introducing bacteria or fungi to your toenails during the trimming process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Cutting Toenails

Follow these steps to ensure you’re trimming your toenails correctly and safely:

1. Soak your feet: Begin by soaking your feet in warm water for 5-10 minutes. This softens the nails, making them easier to cut.
2. Dry thoroughly: After soaking, dry your feet completely, including between the toes, to prevent fungal growth.
3. Position the clippers: Place the nail clippers or scissors parallel to the nail’s edge.
4. Cut straight across: Trim the nail in a straight line, avoiding rounded edges which can lead to ingrown toenails.
5. Maintain proper length: Cut the nails so they’re even with the tips of your toes or slightly shorter.
6. File rough edges: Use a nail file to smooth any sharp edges, always filing in one direction to prevent splitting.
7. Moisturize: Apply a foot cream or moisturizer to keep the skin around your nails soft and hydrated.

How often should you trim your toenails? For most people, trimming every 6-8 weeks is sufficient. However, this can vary based on individual nail growth rates and lifestyle factors.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. Proper nail trimming is key to preventing this common condition.

Tips for Avoiding Ingrown Toenails

• Cut nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges
• Don’t cut nails too short
• Wear properly fitting shoes that don’t crowd the toes
• Keep feet clean and dry
• Avoid picking at or tearing your toenails

What should you do if you develop an ingrown toenail? If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, such as pain, redness, or swelling, soak the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salt. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a podiatrist for professional treatment.

Special Considerations for Diabetics

Individuals with diabetes need to take extra precautions when it comes to foot care, including toenail trimming. Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and reduced blood flow to the feet, making them more susceptible to injuries and infections.

Toenail Care Tips for Diabetics

• Inspect feet daily for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection
• Use a mirror to check the soles of feet if necessary
• Trim nails carefully, avoiding cutting too close to the skin
• Consider professional nail care from a podiatrist
• Never attempt to treat ingrown toenails or corns at home
• Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes to protect feet

Why is professional nail care important for diabetics? Due to the increased risk of complications, many diabetics benefit from regular foot check-ups and nail care performed by a qualified podiatrist. These professionals can safely trim nails and address any foot-related concerns before they become serious issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

While proper at-home toenail care is essential, there are times when it’s advisable to consult a podiatrist or other foot care specialist. Consider seeking professional help in the following situations:

• Persistent ingrown toenails
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)
• Thickened or discolored nails that may indicate fungal infection
• Difficulty trimming your own nails due to limited mobility or poor eyesight
• Diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation in the feet
• Chronic foot pain or discomfort

How can a podiatrist help with toenail care? Podiatrists can provide professional nail trimming services, treat existing foot conditions, and offer advice on maintaining healthy feet. They can also perform more complex procedures if necessary, such as partial or complete nail removal for severe ingrown toenails.

Benefits of Regular Podiatric Check-ups

Regular visits to a podiatrist can offer several advantages:

• Early detection of foot problems
• Professional treatment of existing conditions
• Customized advice for foot care based on individual needs
• Preventive care to maintain overall foot health

By incorporating these professional services into your foot care routine, you can ensure that your feet remain healthy and pain-free.

Proper toenail care is an essential aspect of overall foot health. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can maintain healthy toenails, prevent common foot problems, and enjoy comfortable, pain-free feet. Remember to trim your nails regularly, use the correct technique, and seek professional help when needed. With consistent care and attention, you can keep your feet looking and feeling their best.

Are You Cutting Your Toenails the Right Way?: The Foot & Ankle Specialists: Podiatric Medicine

Are You Cutting Your Toenails the Right Way?: The Foot & Ankle Specialists: Podiatric Medicine

Did you know your toenails grow about 1.6 millimeters every month? Your nails start growing before you’re born and keep growing over the course of your life, which means that trimming them regularly is an essential part of your personal hygiene routine.

It’s something everyone must do, but few people give it much thought — and you could be cutting your nails wrong without even knowing it. Lisa Burson, DPM, and Joe Aoun, DPM, are here to help.

We specialize in comprehensive foot care at The Foot & Ankle Specialists, and that includes toenail trimming. There’s a right and wrong way to cut your toenails, and doing it the right way helps you avoid painful foot problems.

The way you cut your toenails matters

Cutting your nails might seem like an insignificant chore. However, toenails that are too long, too short, or cut the wrong way can hurt your feet and even increase your risk of other health issues.

Long toenails easily get caught on socks, shoes, and blankets. When they catch, they can break, and those sharp, jagged edges can cut your other toes and your feet.

On the other hand, toenails that are too short increase your risk of ingrown nails. Ingrown nails form when the nail corner grows into the soft skin around it. Ingrown nails are painful, and they can get infected.

If you have diabetes, the way you cut your toenails is particularly important. Diabetic nerve damage decreases sensation to your feet, which means small cuts and scrapes can go unnoticed. Poor circulation slows healing, and those wounds can get infected and become diabetic foot ulcers. 

How to cut your toenails properly

So, cutting your toenails the right way is important — both for your feet and your overall health — but how can you make sure you’re doing it correctly?

Start by making a habit of cutting your toenails about every six to eight weeks. Your nails might grow slower or faster than the average, so check your feet regularly to make sure your nails don’t get too long before you cut them again.

When it’s time to cut your nails, here’s how to do it right:

Wash your feet

Before cutting your nails, wash your feet with a gentle soap, then rinse them. Dry your feet thoroughly, and make sure to dry all the skin between your toes, too.

Use the proper tools

Use clean, sharp nail tools to cut your toenails. Toenail clippers and nail scissors both work well, so choose the tools with which you feel most comfortable.

Clip your toenails

Next, clip your nails. Cut toenails straight across, and don’t round the edges. Aim to cut them short enough that they won’t catch on things, but not so short that they feel sensitive to the touch.

File your toenails

After clipping, check the edges of your nails for rough spots. If necessary, file your toenails to smooth out the edges. Wait until your nails are completely dry to file them, and always file in one direction (not back and forth) to avoid splintering.

Remember that our team at The Foot & Ankle Specialists offers professional nail trimming services, too. If you have trouble reaching your toes or you’re concerned about cutting your nails the wrong way, ask about getting your nails cut in the office.

Professional nail trimming is safe and effective. Plus, we can combine the service with a full foot exam to monitor your health and identify any new issues.

To learn more about the right way to cut your toenails or to book a professional nail trimming appointment, call our offices in Bay City, Caro, or Lapeer, Michigan, or use the online booking tool today.

6 Treatment Options for Sports Injuries That Affect Your Feet

If you’re an athlete, you know that a foot injury can compromise your game and your mobility. Sports injuries that affect your feet are common, but the good news is that you have treatment options to start healing and get back out there faster.

8 Foot Problems That Can Be Improved With Custom Orthotics

Living with foot pain? You aren’t alone — and you don’t have to keep suffering. Custom orthotics are a simple, effective way to relieve foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and more. Find out if orthotics are right for you.

New to Running? Here’s How to Keep Your Feet Healthy and Injury-Free

Running is an excellent form of exercise, but it’s a high-impact activity that can be hard on your feet. If you’re just starting out, follow these podiatrist-recommended tips to keep your feet feeling great and injury-free.

Here’s Why You Should Have a Podiatrist on Your Diabetic Care Team

Diabetes complications can threaten your foot health, your mobility, and your quality of life — but you can do a lot to lower your risk. Keep reading to learn why it’s important to have a podiatrist on your diabetic care team.

How to Prevent Chronic Instability After a Severe Ankle Injury

You suffered an ankle injury, and now you’re wondering what to do next. Seeking prompt treatment and following your rehabilitation plan is essential for proper healing — and it can help you avoid chronic ankle instability, too.

Should I Be Worried if I Get an Ingrown Toenail With Diabetes?

Ingrown toenails are common — and they should always be taken seriously, especially if you have diabetes. Diabetes increases your risk of serious infection and foot ulcers, but prompt care can help protect your health. Learn what to do here.

How to trim your nails

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How to properly cut, trim fingernails and toenails.

How to trim your fingernails and toenails? No problem!

To do this, you should know some of the features of the procedure for shortening and filing the nail plates.

Nail trimming.

First, we determine the shape of the nails.

The shape of the nails on the hands can be any, but the best option is a rounded upper edge that repeats the shape of the hole, or as they are also called lunules (small, light stripes on the nail in the form of a crescent at the cuticle itself).

Handnail shortening procedure:

1. Treat scissors (forceps) with disinfectant. The tips of the scissors are advanced from the edge to the middle in small steps, without trying to completely cut off the entire nail plate in one movement, which prevents its delamination and the possibility of cutting off the excess. And so each nail in turn, trying not to accidentally injure the skin (which happens when using a new sharpened tool). If the skin around the nails is injured, the wound must be treated with hydrogen peroxide.
2. With smooth movements from the edges to the center, we process (file) the nail plate with a nail file, giving it a rounded shape. First, they take a large, and then a fine-grained grinding file.
3. We complete the procedure by applying a moisturizing cream or foam to the hands, and do a finger massage.

How to properly cut toenails:

1. Treat scissors (forceps) with disinfectant. It is necessary to shorten the plate using special straight cutters. Following a smooth arc, not much rounding the upper edge of the nail plate, we move from the edge to the middle in small steps.
2. After cutting, we file the upper edge of the nail plate with nail files.
3. In the end – apply cream or oil on the skin of the legs and nail plates, massaging movements to achieve maximum absorption of the moisturizer.

Incorrect cutting. Correct cutting. Cut in a smooth arc.

Thus , shortening the nails on your hands and feet is not a complicated procedure in caring for them, but it requires thoroughness, accuracy and knowledge of the specifics of execution. Anyone can always afford good care at home with the help of improvised means and at a ridiculous price.

Take care of your arms and legs.

Firstly , it helps to keep the nail plate healthy.

Secondly, is elementary hygiene: removal of accumulated dirt from under the nails, removal of burrs and cuticles, removal of calluses.

Manicure and pedicure help keep you healthy. Trust your health to professionals. Find your master, in whose work you will be 100% sure. A specialist will always pay attention to a possible problem and help prevent it. The price you pay for the procedure will be more than offset by the feeling of confidence in the healthy condition of your nails!

How to cut nails. Podiatrist advice.

Find out about problems with nails and feet in our following articles:

– Ingrown toenail.

– Nail fungus.

– Callus. Removal.

– Diabetic foot. Podiatrist advice.

If you see any change in the skin or nails, do not delay and contact a podiatrist. At the consultation, the specialist will notice the slightest deviations from the norm, advise the best solution and individually select a home care product for you.

You can make an appointment for a manicure or pedicure, as well as an appointment and consultation with a podologist, at the Center for Podology and Nail Aesthetics.

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How to cut your toenails? — LadyWow

Contents

• Features
• Preparation
  • Tooling
• Step by step instructions
• Who shouldn’t cut their own toenails?
• How often to cut?
• Video on the topic of the article

A high-quality pedicure, which is carried out in accordance with all the rules, helps to acquire not only a beautiful appearance, but also to avoid many problems. That is why it is important to know how to properly cut your toenails. Improper cutting of the nail can cause damage to the integrity of nearby tissues, foci of suppuration, fungal infections, ingrown nails and many other problems.

Rules for cutting nails

Features

Despite the fact that for many, the procedure for cutting the nail plate seems to be everyday and not very significant, it has several important and significant nuances.

• First of all, you should definitely pay attention to the shape of the nail plates. Ideally, they should follow the shape of the fingertips. In theory, the correct, or standard, shape is called an arch – arched. Trimming arched nails is the easiest and safest way.
• It is very important to choose the right tools to trim nails without damage or injury.

There are many types of tools that can be used to trim your legs. It can be scissors, special tweezers or wire cutters.

Nail clippers

Manicure scissors are not recommended as a tool. With their help, it is unlikely that it will be possible to properly and correctly cut the nails. Nail cutting is best done with flat tongs, the size of which does not exceed 12 centimeters.

Knisper is used for thick nail plates. These are special scissors made of high-strength steel, the ends of the scissors are rounded. With this tool, you can cut off ingrown nail plates.

Preparation

The preparation phase has a specific sequence:

1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Recondition instruments (even if the pedicure set is for individual use only).
3. If you need to cut fungal nail plates, you must wear gloves.
4. Wash feet before trimming.
5. If the plates are brittle, it is advisable to soften the plate with a warm bath before starting.

The bath will help soften the nails, as well as prevent the formation of cracks, and simplify the process of trimming.

Foot bath

Treatment of instruments

For these purposes it is necessary to use a soapy solution, disinfectants. Metal objects should be immersed in a disinfectant solution for at least 10 minutes. Then rinse and dry. An oven can be used as a sterilizer.

Processing tools

This completes the preparatory phase. Before proceeding with the execution, it is worth studying the step-by-step instructions for execution.

Step-by-step instructions

It is not recommended to cut in one stroke. It is necessary to cut the nails gradually, that is, in several stages. You need to shape your nails with a nail file.

1. Place a towel or napkin on the floor. This will help you collect all the trimmed nails and throw them away.
2. The cut must be made in several stages, without going deep to the tips of the plate. You should not try to cut ingrown nails at the same time in one motion, as delamination or damage to nearby tissues is possible.
3. It is not recommended to cut the plate at the root. This will cause damage to soft tissues and can cause infection, pain. A small strip should always remain.
4. Use a nail file to give the desired shape. A buff may also come up. It is not necessary to cut dry trimmed nails often, as they will begin to exfoliate. They can be of various shapes: round, oval, or even rectangular. The form should not have pointed sections. You need to file them from the edges to the central part.
5. Dry feet with a towel or disposable towel.
6. Lubricate feet with moisturizer, oil, or wax. This will save the skin from drying out and delamination of the nail plates.

An antifungal cream or gel should be applied to a fungal nail before clipping. If necessary, cut ingrown nails, you can rub a softening or anti-inflammatory cream.

Who shouldn’t cut their own toenails?

There is a category of people who are not recommended to cut their own nails.

1. These are people who suffer from skin and fungal infections. With great care, it is necessary to carry out the procedure for infants.
2. It is generally not recommended for children under a month to cut their own shearing, as they have not yet formed a plate. After a month, surgical steel scissors with round edges should be used as a tool. If the baby was born already with long nails, they should be cut off after birth. Babies need to carry out the procedure in a dream or during a meal.

It is very important that little children have individual tools that no one else uses. Each time before use, scissors should be treated with chlorhexidine.

Baby nail clipping

Elderly people .

This category of people has a very thick nail plate and impaired blood flow. In this regard, it is required to select a special tool and conduct a thorough, optimal preparation. Before starting, be sure to make a warm bath or steaming compression lotions. In some cases, a long compress for 6-10 hours is required. In some cases, it is necessary to apply a special keratolic patch. It can be purchased at any pharmacy.

Nail cutting for the elderly

How often to cut?

There is no clear answer to this question, since each person’s nails grow at different rates.