Rock Proper Toenail Trimming Techniques

Use the right tools. A nail clipper designed for toenails will do the job easier than trying to cut them with a small fingernail clipper. Use an orange stick to gently push back your cuticles—never cut them. You can smooth down ragged nail edges with a metal nail file or an emery board.

Cut the right way. You want to avoid the risk of ingrown toenails, infection, and pain by cutting your nails straight across with several small nips. Don’t cut off the corners, which can cause in-growing. Don’t cut when your nails are wet, which could cause them to tear and leave an opening for bacteria or fungi to enter. Don’t cut them too short, which could make for sore toes if they rub against your shoes.

Don’t let them get too long. There is no set schedule for cutting your nails—everyone’s grow at different rates. Your toenails protect the ends of your toes from damage, but if they get too long, they can cause pain when your shoes press on them. Trim them before this happens.

Keep them clean. You don’t want to go digging around your nails with sharp objects to get out the sock fuzzies and dirt that can accumulate under them. It is best to clean them after your shower, bath or a foot soak, when the skin and nail are softer, using a soft brush or your fingernails.

Remember, if you have diabetes you need to be extremely careful how you handle your feet. The smallest scrape, cut, or puncture while doing your toenail trimming could risk becoming a non-healing ulcer and worse. Come to Atlantic Foot & Ankle Associates if you notice any small sore during your daily foot check. We are experts in diabetic foot care, so call our Daytona Beach office at (386) 274-3336, or one of our other locations on the Florida coast.

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