While we’re practicing social distancing and doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, we might not have the ability to attend regular appointments or enjoy routine pampering, such as pedicures. Ashley Bojrab, DPM, FACFAS, ABPM, PPG – Podiatry, offers guidance on the best ways to maintain proper foot health, including the tricks to safe toenail trimming.
Foot exams
While we’re staying home to protect ourselves and others, we can’t forget about self-care, including proper foot hygiene. I encourage people to do daily foot inspections by examining the skin on the tops and bottoms of the feet. If it’s too difficult to see the bottoms of the feet, particularly if your mobility is impaired, simply use a hand-held mirror, placed on the floor or held in your hand, to examine the surface. You are looking for anything that may be abnormal, such as dry, cracking skin, redness, irritation or an open sore.
Apply lotion every day 1-2 minutes after bathing to keep moisture in and prevent cracks in the skin. Make sure you don’t apply the lotion between your toes, which can break down the skin.
Toenail care
Our toenails will continue to grow, so we need to maintain a healthy length. We don’t want the nail to be long enough that it can snag on socks and bedding, but we don’t want it too short, which can harm the skin.
To properly trim toenails, cut straight across and don’t curve the corners. If you try to curve the corners, you could leave a sliver of nail which might aggravate an active ingrown toenail and possibly lead to nail surgery. Some toenails are more challenging to trim, due to their shape, thickness or the individual’s mobility. You can soak the feet in lukewarm water to help soften the nails (not recommended for those with diabetes or neuropathy). Take your time and pay close attention to your actions.
Make sure you are using the proper tools – in this case, large toenail clippers – and that they are disinfected. If you aren’t sure, brush them with some rubbing alcohol before and after use. Don’t get too close to the skin.
Patients with diabetes and/or neuropathy are at high risk and should avoid trimming their own toenails. This is where the buddy system can become very helpful. Having a friend or family member trim your toenails is a safer option. You can find more on special foot care for those with diabetes here.
