Why can't diabetics cut their own toenails?

Myth: People with diabetes can't cut their own toenails

Don't cut them straight across, curved down the sides, or too short. Remember, your nails are there to protect your toes.

Why can't you cut your nails when you have diabetes?

That's because diabetes often causes poor circulation that leads to numbness in the feet. Numbness makes it less likely that you'll notice cuts, scrapes, and blisters on your feet, and poor circulation means those wounds are less likely to heal properly.

Where can diabetics get their toenails cut?

It is advisable to have a podiatrist regularly perform the toenail care for diabetics since a small cut from trimming their own nails could quickly escalate into a larger issue. You can help minimize further issues by having a podiatrist regularly perform your nail care.

Why do diabetics have thick toenails?

Diabetics often have reduced blood flow to their feet, which may cause thicker toenails or numbness.

Should diabetics wear socks to bed?

Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin. Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks.

Diabetic Foot Care

What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?

In medical terms this is called onychomycosis or tinea unguium,” says Batra. The fungal infection breaks down the keratin in the nail to form a white or yellow chalky substance under the nail plate. "As keratin debris spreads under the nail, the nail plate typically becomes lifted up off of the nail bed.

How do you cut thick toenails with diabetes?

Cut toenails after bathing, when they are soft. Trim them straight across, then smooth with a nail file. Avoid cutting into the corners of toes. Don't let the corners of your toenails grow into the skin.

Why is my big toenail so thick?

Toenails that grow thicker over time likely indicate a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Prompt treatment can be key to curing the nail fungus. Fungal infections might be difficult to cure and may require months of treatment.

What happens if you cut a diabetics fingernails?

Although a nice, rounded cut is often preferred over a square clipping, diabetics must be careful making curved clips. Cutting too far into the corners of your toenails can lead to the formation of ingrown nails, oftentimes leading to an infection.

Can nurses cut diabetic toenails?

There is no reason why nurses should not cut toenails provided they have had the training and have the appropriate equipment, however, they should be careful with all patients not just those who have diabetes.

Why should diabetics not soak their feet?

Soaking your feet may actually increase your risk of foot problems. It's recommended that you wash your feet every day, but you shouldn't soak them. Soaking can dry out your skin. This can cause cracks to form and lead to infections.

What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails?

Vicks VapoRub

Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus.

Can thickened toenails be reversed?

Thick toenails can be reversed if the underlying cause is addressed or proper preventative measures are taken. Polishing rough surfaces to make them smoother is a great way to treat thick toenails. Avoid pedicures because they may cause fungal infection to flare up when cuticles are removed.

How do you get rid of thick toenails fast?

Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.

Does Medicare pay for podiatrist to cut toenails?

NonCovered Foot Care

The cutting of toenails in a healthy person or when they are not painful is not a payable service by Medicare. The cutting of corns and calluses in a healthy person is not a payable service by Medicare. Legally, your podiatrist cannot try to obtain Medicare payment for noncovered foot care.

Should you cut your toenails wet or dry?

It can also leave your toenail susceptible to infection — plus, it hurts! Cut nails when they're dry, not wet. Wet nails may be likely to tear, bend, or not cut smoothly because they're softer when wet. Cutting dry nails will give you a cleaner, smoother cut.

Can caregivers cut toenails?

Along with keeping their feet clean, maintaining toenails is also very important! Depending upon which state you live in some caregivers are not allowed to trim their client's nails. If you live in a state that allows you to trim nails, be sure to trim the nail straight across.

Should a diabetic get a pedicure?

Diabetics are at risk of foot ulcers and even possible amputation. Taking excellent care of your feet is crucial. Diabetes Forecast says you can get a pedicure at a nail salon as long as you don't have an infection cut ulcer or neuropathy — but urges you to use caution and good judgment.

How do you trim thick elderly toenails?

What causes toenails to thicken and curl?

Toenails can thicken as a result of sudden or repeated trauma or injury. Mostly, this happens to people involved in sport or exercise, such as soccer players, runners, and dancers. It can also affect people who wear ill-fitting shoes. Often, thick nails due to injury are mistaken for fungal infections.

Why do toenails get thick with age?

Blood circulation is when the small blood vessels in our feet begin to narrow and become thicker, making it harder for the blood to flow. This then causes the nail cells to build up causing the nail to thicken from the nail root. This process is called onychoctes.

Why do toenails smell when you cut them?

Bacterial infections usually leak pus and, sometimes, blood. Fungal infections produce discolored toenails that are thick, brittle, and smell bad.

Why is there a hole in my toenail?

Nail pitting is when you have tiny dents in your fingernails or toenails. It can be a sign of psoriasis, eczema, or joint inflammation. You might also get them if they run in your family.

What do yellow toenails mean?

When toenails turn yellow, a fungus is usually to blame. This type of fungal infection is so common that you might not even need to see a doctor for treatment. Try an over-the-counter antifungal cream. If your nail is yellow and thick, gently file down the surface so that the drug can reach deeper layers.