Our Fairfax podiatrist wants you to know that cutting your toenails properly is one of the best ways to prevent the foot pain and discomfort caused by ingrown toenails. An ingrown toenail is a condition where the nail curves and grows into the skin, resulting in pain and possible infection. Using the correct trimming method may help you avoid this uncomfortable foot condition.
5 Steps To Healthy Toenails From Your Fairfax VA Foot & Ankle Care Provider
Step 1
Wash and dry your feet thoroughly before trimming your toenails. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that cleansing will make your nails less brittle, easier and safer to cut.
Step 2
Use the proper tool for cutting your nails, such as nail clippers or manicure scissors. Avoid using sharp cutting tools like razor blades, knives, or regular scissors, because the tool may slip and injure the skin around the nail. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that it is too dangerous to use other sharp cutting tools.
Step 3
Trim your toenails straight across. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons cautions against rounding the corners of your nails or cutting the sides at an angle, because this can lead the corners to grow toward your skin and become ingrown.
Step 4
Cut the nail to the proper length. Our top-rated Fairfax VA podiatrist recommends cutting the nail so the edge reaches the tip of your toe. If you cut the nails too short, they may curl down and grow into the skin as a result of the pressure caused on the nails when wearing shoes and walking.
Step 5
Eliminate any jagged edges that might snag and tear the nail as it grows. Filing your cut nails with an emery board to smooth them will help prevent this as well.
A Few Other Things To Consider, According To Our 5-Star-Rated Fairfax Podiatrist
- Avoid picking your nails instead of trimming them with the proper cutting tools. Tearing nails can create irregular edges, leading to ingrown nails. If you can’t see well, ask your Fairfax VA podiatrist to assist with trimming your nails; particularly if you have an ailment like diabetes. If you don’t already have a podiatrist, feel free to schedule an appointment with our expert podiatrist at The Podiatry Center.
- Prevent nail and fungal infections by keeping your tools sanitary; do not share tools with anyone else.
- Consult your Fairfax podiatry office if you notice any minor injuries or abnormalities with your feet as you trim your nails, particularly if you're a diabetic. Look for changes to the temperature and skin color on your feet, the condition of the skin on your feet, the color and thickness of your toenails, the presence of fungal infections and any blisters, corns, sores, or ulcers that appear infected. If you’re not sure if something is normal or not, always check with your Fairfax podiatrist.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to foot and ankle care, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office location near Fairfax VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
