Caleb Foster
Kaiser Permanente offers comprehensive advice on foot and toenail care for people with diabetes or foot problems. The healthcare provider recommends keeping toenails trimmed and clean to prevent cracks and infection, and suggests that those with diabetes should have their feet checked by a doctor regularly. Kaiser Permanente also provides guidance on cutting toenails, including the importance of not cutting the cuticles and leaving the nails a little longer at the corners to prevent sharp ends from cutting into the skin. For those with diabetes, they advise washing the feet daily and applying lotion to prevent cracks and injuries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Toenail trimming frequency | Check nails each week to see if they need to be trimmed |
| Toenail trimming method | Trim nails straight across, leaving them a little longer at the corners so that the sharp ends don't cut into the skin |
| Toenail trimming tools | Toenail clippers, nail file, nail polish, and nail polish remover |
| Toenail trimming precautions | Do not trim or cut the cuticles, as this could lead to an infection |
| Toenail discoloration | If the person's nails are thick and discolored, it may be safest to have a podiatrist cut them |
| Foot washing frequency | Wash feet every day with mild soap and water |
| Foot washing precautions | If the person has diabetes, wash the feet carefully and dry them gently |
| Foot lotion application | Apply a thin coat of lotion on the tops and bottoms of the feet, but not between the toes, to help prevent cracks and infections |
| Athlete's foot treatment | Try over-the-counter medicine to kill the fungus; if the problem persists, consult a doctor |
| Diabetes foot care | Check for cuts or signs of infection daily, and consult a doctor if any issues are detected |
| Podiatrist recommendation | Consider visiting a podiatrist if the person has diabetes or foot problems such as bunions and corns |
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What You'll Learn
Toenail trimming for people with diabetes
Toenail trimming and foot care are especially important for people with diabetes. Diabetics are more likely to experience foot problems due to nerve damage and poor circulation caused by the disease. Poor foot care can lead to serious complications, such as gangrene or loss of a limb. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt a foot care routine that includes regular toenail trimming.
Toenails should be trimmed straight across, leaving the corners slightly longer to prevent the nail from growing into the skin. Nails should be kept at a moderate length, no longer than the tip of the toes. It is recommended to use sharp, straight-edged clippers designed for toenails and to avoid cutting the cuticles. Trimming toenails after a shower or foot bath is ideal, as the nails are softer and easier to cut. A nail file can be used to gently smooth the edges of the nails, especially at the corners, to prevent sharp ends.
It is important to check the feet and toenails daily for any signs of infection or abnormalities such as pain, swelling, redness, ulcers, bruises, or blisters. People with diabetes should pay extra attention to keeping their feet clean and dry, as diabetes can cause the skin on the feet to dry out and crack, making it more susceptible to wounds and infections. Applying lotion to the feet, especially the heels, can help to prevent dryness, but it should not be applied between the toes.
If a person with diabetes has thick, discoloured, or ingrown toenails, it may be best to consult a podiatrist for professional care. Podiatrists can perform minor procedures to relieve ingrown toenails and provide guidance on proper nail care. Additionally, wearing properly fitting shoes with soft soles can help protect the feet from wounds and injuries. Overall, maintaining proper foot hygiene, including regular toenail trimming, is essential for people with diabetes to prevent complications and maintain overall health.
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How to cut toenails
Toenails should be cut straight across, leaving them long enough so that the corners lie loosely against the skin at the sides. Cutting toenails too short can heighten the risk of ingrown toenails, which can be painful and sometimes lead to infection. Conversely, leaving them too long increases the risk of them getting caught and tearing. Therefore, it is recommended that toenails be maintained at a length of about 1 to 2 millimetres.
Before cutting your toenails, it is important to gather your supplies: you will need toenail clippers and a nail file. You may also need nail polish and nail polish remover. Wash and dry your hands. If there is any existing nail polish, use nail polish remover to take it off.
Toenails are best cut when they are dry as this will make them less likely to bend or tear. However, for people with very thick toenails, cutting them after a shower or foot bath is easier as it makes the nails softer. Soaking your feet in warm water for at least 10 minutes is another way to soften your nails. After softening the nails, use a towel to thoroughly dry your feet and toenails.
When cutting your toenails, hold the foot and toe steady with one hand while you trim the nail with the other. Make small cuts to avoid splintering the nail and cut straight across. Leave the nails a little longer at the corners so that the sharp ends do not cut into the skin. Keep the nails no longer than the tip of the toes.
After cutting your toenails, let them dry if they are still damp and soft. Use a nail file to gently smooth the edges of the nails, especially at the corners. Nails may be sharp after being cut straight across. You can then apply nail polish, if desired.
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When to see a podiatrist
While basic nail care can be done at home, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist if your nails are thick and discoloured. A podiatrist is a doctor who specialises in the care of feet and ankles. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of disorders, injuries, and deformities of the foot and ankle.
You should see a podiatrist if you have diabetes and peripheral circulation problems. People with diabetes are more likely to develop foot sores and infections, and are at a much higher risk for foot problems like poor circulation, nerve damage, ulcers, and infection. Podiatrists can help manage the effects of nerve and blood vessel damage and prevent the progression of issues such as neuropathy, ulcerations, and Charcot foot. It is recommended that people with diabetes see a podiatrist at least once a year for a foot exam.
You should also see a podiatrist if you have arthritis or joint pain, or if you have suffered an injury to your foot or ankle, such as a sprain, fracture, or sports injury. Podiatrists can treat foot and ankle injuries, including ankle sprains, high ankle sprains, heel bursitis, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures. They can also treat bone fractures in the foot or ankle, including toe fractures/dislocations, Lisfranc fractures, Jones fractures, and talus fractures.
If you are experiencing any issues with your feet or ankles, such as pain, swelling, redness, or warmth, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist. They can help determine the root cause of the pain and develop a long-term treatment plan. Podiatrists can also prescribe orthotics (shoe inserts), braces, and casts to help correct posture and balance.
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Athlete's foot treatment
Athlete's foot is a contagious fungal infection that causes itchy skin on the feet. It is caused by fungi that grow and spread on warm, moist skin. The infection can spread to other areas of the body, including the toenails, hands, and groin. It is important to treat athlete's foot promptly and properly to prevent it from spreading and becoming more difficult to treat. Here are some detailed instructions for treating athlete's foot:
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap and water, then dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Keeping your feet clean and dry helps prevent the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
Trim and Care for Toenails
Keep your toenails trimmed and clean. Toenails should be cut straight across, leaving them slightly longer at the corners to prevent sharp ends from cutting into the skin. Use a nail file to gently smooth the edges, especially the corners. If your toenails are thick and discolored, it is best to have them cut by a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in foot care.
Use Antifungal Treatments
Apply over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders to treat the infection. These treatments can kill the fungus and help clear up the infection. Follow the directions on the package, and be sure to complete the full course of treatment to prevent the infection from returning.
Wear Breathable Footwear and Clean Socks
Choose shoes made of breathable materials that allow your feet to stay cool and dry. Avoid tight, closed-toe shoes. Wear clean socks daily and change them if your feet become sweaty. Socks made of cotton, wool, or synthetic moisture-wicking materials are good choices.
Disinfect Shared Spaces and Items
Clean shared spaces and items to prevent the spread of the infection. Use disinfecting sprays or wipes on floors and shoes. Wash towels, socks, and bedding in hot water, adding bleach to the laundry if possible. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, shoes, and socks.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of getting athlete's foot, avoid walking barefoot in shared spaces, and wear sandals or flip-flops in communal areas such as locker rooms, pools, and showers. Additionally, allow your shoes to dry for at least 24 hours between wears.
It is important to follow these treatment measures consistently and seek medical advice if the infection does not clear up. With proper treatment and care, athlete's foot can be effectively managed and resolved.
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Basic nail care
Keep Nails Clean and Trimmed: It is important to keep your nails clean and trimmed to a safe length. Regularly trim your nails, ideally after a shower or a foot bath when they are softer and easier to cut. Trim nails straight across, leaving the corners slightly longer to prevent sharp ends from cutting into the skin. Use a nail file to gently smooth the edges, especially at the corners.
Moisturize Nails and Cuticles: Moisturizing is crucial for maintaining nail health. Apply a moisturizer or cuticle oil to your nails and cuticles to keep them hydrated and supple. This helps prevent dry, brittle nails and promotes overall nail health.
Avoid Excessive Water Exposure: While keeping nails clean is important, excessive water exposure can weaken the nail structure. Reduce the time your nails spend in contact with water, and consider wearing gloves during activities like dishwashing to minimize water exposure.
Practice Cuticle Care: Cuticles are the nail's natural protective seal. Avoid cutting or pushing back your cuticles aggressively. Instead, use a cuticle softener and gently push them back with your nails. Moisturize the cuticle area to keep it healthy.
Address Nail Discoloration: If your nails become thick and discolored, it may be best to consult a podiatrist or a healthcare professional for proper care. Do not attempt to cut or treat severely discolored nails without professional advice.
Additionally, it is important to examine your nails regularly for any signs of infection, such as pain, swelling, redness, or warmth. Basic nail care involves keeping your nails clean, trimmed, and moisturized to maintain their health and prevent potential issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Basic toenail care can be done at home. If you have diabetes or foot problems, such as bunions and corns, consider seeing a podiatrist.
Trim your toenails straight across, leaving them a little longer at the corners to prevent the sharp ends from cutting into the skin. Keep them no longer than the tip of your toes.
Check your toenails each week to see if they need trimming. It's best to trim them after a shower or foot bath when they are softer.
If your toenails are thick and discolored, it is safest to have them cut by a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in foot care.
