Don’t Trim Toenails This Way
Do you know how to trim your toenails? If you’re running your maintenance routine through your mind, there may be something missing. Have you considered how often you should trim your nails? Is it best to work with wet toes or dry ones? There are many questions to consider when it comes to this very important part of routine foot care.
If things go wrong during trimming, ingrown toenails are the top result. The condition occurs when the toenail begins to grow into the surrounding skin. For some people, the area can become swollen and inflamed. These signs can often point to an infection. Trimming toenails too short is a top cause.
Take notes and avoid these three things while trimming:
The wrong clippers
Please don’t use fingernail clippers; they are the wrong size and style. Toenail clippers are larger, and they are much better at clipping thicker, broader nails. Choosing small clippers can make the process much more difficult and time-consuming. Always choose clean, sharp clippers. Never use scissors.
- Toss old clippers
- Don’t share with others
- Beware of foot fungus
Clipping too short
Clipping too short or too often may be a big problem. Experts recommend clipping every six to eight weeks. If you’re not sure what works best for you, talk with your podiatrist. It’s important to not let your toenails grow too long either. They can easily snag fabric or rip. Avoid tearing your nails.
- Ask the podiatrist for help
- Address cuts
- Use caution with diabetes
Trimming the wrong way
Do you know which direction is best for clipping? Straight across. For some people, it may take two clips. Either way, this is the best way to go. If you have any jagged edges, that’s when the file becomes your friend. Use a file to smooth the edges or soften corners.
- Take your time
- Avoid poor lighting
- Never tear nails
If you still have questions about your toenails, we’re here to help. We know how important this step is to your overall foot hygiene. Practice at home and take along these tips, too. It’s never too late to learn something new.
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in
the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.