For anyone living with diabetes, tending to your foot and ankle health is vital, and toenail care is a huge part of that. We at Podiatry Center of New Jersey don’t want any of our diabetic patients to overlook their toes, which is why we’ve detailed below exactly why they matter so much to diabetics.
The Hidden Dangers of Improper Care
The main danger lies in an ingrown toenail or an accidental cut.
If you have diabetes, you might not feel a small injury due to peripheral neuropathy; what would be a painful alarm for someone else might go completely unnoticed. And when your toenail is trimmed incorrectly, either by cutting it too short or by rounding the corners, it can easily create a sharp edge that digs into the skin.
This break in the skin is an open invitation for bacteria, and with poor circulation (which is also a common complication of diabetes), your body might not be able to fight off this infection or heal its wound.
A small, painless ingrown toenail can quickly escalate into a serious, non-healing foot ulcer.
The Nail as a Health Indicator
Your toenails can also act as a crucial health monitor. A podiatrist will tell you that the appearance of your nails can signal a problem.
Thickened, brittle, or discolored nails are often a tell-tale sign of a fungal infection, which is more common in diabetics and can compromise the skin and nails.
Also, a small bruise under the nail is a sign of trauma, which can also be a point of concern. Paying attention to these changes and addressing them promptly is an important part of proactive care.
When to Seek Professional Care
As a person with diabetes ages, or if they have reduced vision or dexterity, trimming toenails safely can become a real challenge. To us, the risk of an accidental cut is simply too high.
That’s where podiatrists can be invaluable partners. We have the sterile tools and expertise to trim nails correctly and safely, all while performing a professional foot exam to spot any subtle changes you might miss. Regular visits for nail care are not a luxury, but rather a critical part of preventing complications.
The Right Tools for the Job
If you are able to safely trim your own nails, it’s still important to use a good pair of toenail clippers and always cut straight across. Avoid using scissors or any tools not designed for the job. DON’T dig into the corners of the nail.
If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.
