How To Cut Your Toenails Like a Professional

September 18, 2020

How To Cut Your Toenails Like a Professional

As simple as it may seem, trimming and filing your toenails correctly is an important part of maintaining proper foot health. It can save you from pesky and rather painful nail problems, such as ingrown toenails, broken toenails, and toenail related infections.

Here are the Dos and Don’ts of toenail cutting.

DOs

Wash and Dry Your Feet First

Clean your feet at least once a day to maintain proper hygiene. Your feet are either in contact with the ground or very close to it couped up in a pair of shoes. These circumstances make them highly susceptible to come in contact with harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Thoroughly drying your feet will also ensure your tools do not slip and you are able to see the nail edge clearly.

Have the Right Tool(s) Available

To trim your toenails, you will need a pair of sharp nail clippers or professional nail nippers if you have very thick nails. You will also need a nail file.

Clip Nails Straight Across

When cutting the toenail, the safest way to do it is to cut the nail straight across. This will ensure the toenail continues to grow forward.

File Sharp or Jagged Edges

This is an important step. Always file any sharp corners or jagged edges to ensure the nail edge is smooth. Sharp corners can catch on socks or even poke the surrounding skin. This also ensures you do not leave a nail spike behind to grow into the skin and cause a very painful ingrown toenail.

DON’Ts

Wait Too Long Between Trimming Toenails

Although toenails do not grow as quickly as fingernails, they still need to be trimmed routinely. You should cut your toenails at least once every eight weeks. Keeping them long is not only uncomfortable in socks and closed-toe shoes, but it also increases the risk of the toenail breaking or cracking, and thus increases the risk of infection.

Rip, Peel, or Bite Your Toenails

Using your fingers or any other body part to “trim” your toenails is very unsafe (and unhygienic!). You have very little control when doing this and more often than not, the nail is left too short, jagged, and removed too deep.

Trim The Nails Too Short or Too Deep

The skin surrounding the nail should not be higher than the toenail as this may cause the nail to grow into the skin instead of on top of it. Rather, the nail should be cut to the edge of the skin and should not be cut deeper than that. Cutting the nails too short can also expose the nail bed underneath, making the area very tender.

Use Dirty Tools

Clean your tools regularly with rubbing alcohol or regularly replace them if they are disposable. Using tools that harbor germs and bacteria can be dangerous, especially if you accidentally nick your skin or have an ingrown toenail.

If you suspect you have a toenail issue, do not wait to seek attention from a licensed chiropodist, especially if you have other medical conditions such as diabetes. A chiropodist will be able to assess the problem and explore the appropriate treatment options.

Have Your Toenails Examined by a Professional Today!

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September 11, 2023

Skin Peeling on Feet: Causes and Remedies

Having peeling skin on your feet can be both uncomfortable and concerning. This condition, often called foot peeling or foot exfoliation, occurs when the skin on the feet sheds in small flakes or larger pieces. Peeling skin on the feet may sometimes lead to itchiness, redness, and even pain. Fortunately, proper foot care can help alleviate the problem and restore the feet to their natural, healthy state. Various factors can cause skin peeling on the feet, and it's essential to identify the underlying cause to determine the appropriate remedy. Here are some common causes and corresponding remedies: Dry skin Dry skin roughens the skin, making it itchy, flaky, or scaly. It's a common condition that affects people of all ages. The medical term for dry skin is xeroderma, whereas xerosis is severely dry skin. Cause Lack of moisture and hydration can lead to dry skin on the feet, making it prone to peeling. Dry skin has several causes, including: Heat: Warm temperatures reduce humidity, drawing moisture out of the skin and drying it out. Climate: Living in cold, windy conditions or low-humidity climates can cause drier skin. Too much bathing or scrubbing: Long, hot showers or baths and excessive drying/scrubbing can dry out your skin. Washing your feet too much may also dry out your skin because the washing strips away your body's natural oils. Harsh soaps and detergents: Some soaps and detergents may contain ingredients that can irritate and dry your skin. Age: As we age, the skin begins to thin and produces less water-retaining natural oils. Remedy Keep your feet well-moisturized by regularly applying a thick, hydrating foot cream or petroleum jelly. Ditch the harsh soaps and boiling water when washing your feet. It's also important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Athlete's foot Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Tinea pedis was named 'athlete's foot' because it is commonly found in people with sweaty feet. Cause A fungus called dermatophytes causes Athlete's foot when it comes in contact with your feet. It's a contagious infection that can quickly spread to others through skin contact. Common sites for fungus include warm, moist environments and shared spaces, like pools, locker rooms, shoes, or showers. Remedy Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders designed explicitly for Athlete's foot. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid wearing damp socks or closed shoes for an extended period. Eczema or psoriasis Eczema and psoriasis are conditions where your skin may peel on your feet. Cause These skin conditions can affect the feet, causing redness, itching, and peeling. Eczema occurs when you come in contact with an irritant, whereas psoriasis is an auto-immune disease with no cure. Remedy It's recommended to consult a dermatologist for remedies for eczema or psoriasis. They may prescribe topical corticosteroids or other medications to manage the condition. With psoriasis, treatments are designed to prevent skin cells from multiplying. Allergic reaction Cause Exposure to allergens in socks, shoes, or foot care products can trigger an allergic reaction, which then leads to skin peeling. Remedy Identify and try to remove the allergen causing the reaction from your environment. For instance, switch to hypoallergenic socks and shoes if your socks irritate your feet and lead to peeling skin. If that doesn't work, consider swapping your laundry detergent for a product with natural ingredients. Prolonged sun exposure Prolonged sun exposure refers to when you are exposed to UV rays for an extended time without proper sun protection. As a result, your skin may develop more wrinkles and lines. Cause Sun exposure to the feet can cause moderate to severe sunburns, damaging the skin's outer layer. Next, your skin begins to peel as the body tries to rid itself of damaged cells. Remedy Protect your feet from the sun by wearing appropriate footwear and sunscreen with a high SPF. Contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash stemming from an allergic reaction. Typically, the rash forms after your skin comes in contact with a substance or irritant. Cause Irritation of the skin due to contact with certain chemicals or substances. Remedy Identify and avoid the irritant. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may provide relief. Consult a doctor if the condition persists. Pitted keratolysis Cause A bacterial infection affects the feet' soles, creating pits and causing peeling. Remedy Keep your feet clean and dry, wear open-toed shoes when possible, and use antibacterial soaps or topical antibiotics as a healthcare professional prescribes. Poor foot hygiene Cause Inadequate foot hygiene can lead to the accumulation of dead skin, which may peel off. Remedy Practice good foot hygiene by regularly washing and thoroughly drying your feet. Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin, and use moisturizers to hydrate the skin.

September 4, 2023

Best Shoes for Teachers 2023

Teachers spend long hours on their feet, so choosing comfortable and supportive shoes is essential to prevent foot fatigue and discomfort. From standing at the front of the classroom, traveling to or from work, or walking between classrooms, teachers put their feet to the test every day. The best shoes for teachers offer a combination of cushioning, arch support, stability, non-slip soles, and durability. The right pair of shoes can make a difference in a teacher's daily life, providing comfort, support, and style that keeps up with their fast-paced roles. The Ontario Physical Activity Safety Standards in Education suggests that "appropriate footwear is a shoe designed for athletic activities with a sole that provides traction and is secured to the foot." Without the proper footwear, teachers are at greater risk of developing two common foot conditions: plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. In this guide, we list our recommendations for the best shoes for teachers to maximize comfort and keep your feet feeling great all day. Saucony Saucony has a wide range of footwear, including athletic, athleisure, and sport-specific shoes. With a strong focus on running shoes, Saucony caters to various running styles and preferences and is known for its durability, support, and cushioning. For teachers, we recommend the Saucony Triumph 21 for those looking for a more athletic shoe or the Saucony Shadow Original and Jazz Triple for a more casual appearance. Asics ASICS shoes are amongst the most popular in the world. The brand's GEL cushioning system makes them a great choice to protect your feet and keep them feeling their best. They have great shoes for walking and standing, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 (for people with neutral gaits or high arches), the Asics Novablast 3 for those seeking a rocker sole, and the Asics Gel-Kayano for those requiring a stability shoe. Apex Apex shoes provide ample support, cushioning, and ergonomic design to promote proper alignment and alleviate common foot ailments. From orthotic-friendly features to diabetic footwear options, APEX aims to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or diabetes can experience improved comfort and mobility. Look at the Apex Boss Runner Active Shoe for a supportive and comfortable option on the job. Anodyne Anodyne footwear specifically caters to those with diabetes, neuropathy, and other foot-related sensitivities. Their footwear features extra depth and roomy toe boxes to provide ample space for toes and accommodate custom orthotics. In addition, Anodyne shoes also often incorporate seamless interiors to minimize irritation and pressure points. The Anodyne No. 75 or No. 72 Casual Sport shoes are excellent for teachers mixing comfort and style. Mephisto Mephisto shoes strongly emphasize quality and feature the brand's soft-air midsole technology. Their shoes prioritize shock absorption and cushioning, which reduces impact on joints and promotes a smoother walking experience. Mephisto offers both casual and dressier options like the Mephisto Wing or Majestro. ara Shoes ara Shoes blend of fashion and functionality appeals to individuals seeking versatile footwear that combines style and comfort. Look at the Ara Leigh footwear line from Ara Shoes for a solid shoe choice for teachers' working hours. Portofino Portofino shoes are backed by Italian craftsmanship and offer a premium footwear line for a more formal look. Whether it's delicate stitching, exquisite leather, or refined silhouettes, Portofino Shoes blend traditional artistry and contemporary aesthetics. Consider the Portofino DY-5068 model if you're a teacher in the market for new shoes. Clarks Clarks shoes combine form and function. They're also backed by close to 200 years of innovation. The Clarks Unstructured Line is excellent lightweight footwear with flexible soles, ideal for long days on your feet. We recommend the Clarks Nalle Lace or the Clarks Court Lite Wally outside the Unstructured line.

July 17, 2023

Black Toenail: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

Black toenails can be an unsightly but under-discussed topic for some individuals. The condition can stem from an injury, an underlying health issue, or ill-fitting shoes. A black toenail is likely a bruise under the nail, called a subungual hematoma. Seeing a black toenail at first glance can be alarming and uncomfortable, especially for first-timers. Fortunately, the discolouration and potential pain associated with blackened toenails are generally not a cause for concern. While the condition may not always be serious, understanding its possible causes, prevention methods, and treatment options is crucial for maintaining overall foot health and finding relief. Today, we'll focus on black toenails. In this article, you'll learn more about the common causes, treatment options, and prevention tips for black toenails: Causes of black toenails Causes of black toenails typically fall under three categories: injury, footwear, or an underlying health issue like a fungal infection. Below we dive into the three most likely culprits in more depth. Trauma or injury Stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or repetitive pressure from running or soccer can lead to a black toenail. Repeated pressure or friction to the nail bed can damage the blood vessels under the nail, ultimately creating a black toenail. For instance, marathon runners often get black toenails after running long distances. Ill-fitting footwear Shoes that are too tight or do not provide adequate toe room can cause repeated pressure and friction on the toenail. Whether on the job or wearing the wrong shoes for your partaking activity, ill-fitting footwear can be the culprit for black toenails. Fungal infection Sometimes, a black toenail can result from a fungal infection that affects the nail bed. Rare causes If none of the above apply to you, you shouldn't necessarily rule out rarer causes. In this case, consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis. Rare causes of black toenails include: Malignant melanoma Chronic ingrown nail Other health problems Treatment for a black toenail Generally, black toenails aren't severe and are more of a sight for sore eyes. If you have a black toenail, you can do the following: Observation and self-care: If the black toenail is painless and there are no signs of infection, you can let the nail heal independently. It will typically take several weeks for the discoloured nail to grow naturally. The discolouration could take 6-8 months to disappear as the nail grows and you trim away the culprit. Rest and elevation: Resting and elevating the foot above heart level can help reduce swelling and promote healing. Ice: Applying ice packs wrapped in a cloth to the affected area can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can alleviate pain if necessary. Protective padding: You can use cushioned bandages or moleskin padding to protect the affected toe to prevent further irritation. Professional treatment: Sometimes, a foot specialist may need to drain the blood from under the nail to relieve pressure and facilitate healing. Paint your nails: If aesthetics are a primary concern, you can cover the nail with nail polish to hide the visible signs of a black toenail. Just first make sure you don't have any exposed skin or abrasions, as this can then lead to infection. Prevention tips for black toenails Prevention for black toenails hones in on proper nail care and hygiene and investing in the proper footwear: Invest in your footwear: Ensure that your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that can cause pressure on the toenails. Investing in the proper footwear also means having specific footwear for each purpose - for instance, at work, casually, or while playing a sport. Protect your feet: If you engage in activities that pose a higher risk of a toe injury, such as sports or heavy lifting, consider wearing protective footwear or toe guards. Trim your toenails: Trim your toenails straight and avoid cutting them too short to prevent trauma or ingrown nails. For more tips on how to cut your toenails, read our nail trimming guide. Further, use toenail clippers for your toenails, not fingernail clippers. Maintain good foot hygiene and habits: Keep your feet clean and dry to minimize the risk of fungal infections affecting the nails. Regular inspections: Regularly examine your feet and nails for any signs of damage or discolouration. Promptly address any issues to prevent further complications. If the black toenail is accompanied by severe pain, signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or discharge), or if it doesn't improve within a few weeks, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the condition, provide appropriate treatment, and ensure no underlying issues require further attention.

June 26, 2023

Heel Spurs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Heel spurs are bony growths on the heel bone (calcaneus). Bone spurs on the heel are often associated with plantar fasciitis, in which the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. A heel spur is the most common bone spur. In minor cases, you may experience discomfort in the heel from time to time. In more severe cases, the bony outgrowth may protrude from the heel and a bump on the underside of the foot. Generally, the larger the outgrowth, the more sensitive your heel becomes to stress, which can exacerbate the condition. However, roughly 15-30% of cases are asymptomatic with no pain. In this post, we uncover the causes, symptoms, and treatments for heel spurs, so you can kick discomfort to the curb and get back on your feet. Ready to say goodbye to heel pain? Read more below. Causes of Heel Spurs The primary cause of heel spurs is repetitive stress to the foot, which can lead to the formation of bony growth on the heel bone. Microtears typically cause the initial onset of heel spurs due to the repetitive stress associated with standing upright and weight-bearing. These microtears can be caused by the following: Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is the top contributor to heel spurs. The condition involves inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, leading to pain and swelling in the heel. Flat feet or high arches Flat feet or high arches are two foot conditions that can stress the heel more, leading to heel spur formation. Excessive weight or obesity Being overweight puts additional stress on the feet and can increase the risk of developing heel spurs. High-impact sports High-impact activities like running, ballet, or jumping can put added stress on the feet. Over time, repeated impact to the foot and heel can lead to heel spur formation. Inadequate footwear Improper footwear can stress the heel and lead to heel spurs over time. For instance, wearing worn-out shoes, using footwear for which it's not designed, or wearing footwear unsuitable for your foot type. Symptoms of Heel Spurs There are a few telltale signs of heel spurs with symptoms entirely isolated to the heel of the foot. Symptoms include: Pain in the heel, especially with walking or running Tenderness and swelling in the heel area Redness or warmth in the heel area A bony protrusion on the heel bone, which may feel like a bump or be visible through X-rays You may experience numerous symptoms or just a single symptom of heel spurs, depending on how long you've experienced discomfort. The treatment method should match the level of symptoms you experience. How to Treat Heel Spurs? Heel spur treatment addresses the condition's underlying cause and may include rest, stretching exercises, footwear changes, orthotic devices, medications, physical therapy, or surgery. If you are experiencing heel spur symptoms, seeking medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment is essential. Learn more about some of the more common treatment options for heel spurs below: Rest and ice The number one treatment method for heel spurs is resting and icing. Resting the affected foot and applying ice can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Stretching exercises Stretching exercises can help to loosen the plantar fascia and reduce stress on the heel. You may find relief in stretching the calf muscle, which reduces the load and stress on the foot and heel. Specifically, tight gastrocnemius, soleus, and other posterior leg muscles are common in plantar fasciitis patients. Here are eight practical heel spur stretching exercises you can perform at home. Footwear changes Proper footwear can help reduce heel stress. Wear shoes with good arch support and adequate cushioning. It would help if you also chose your footwear according to how you use them. For instance, buy and use running shoes for running. Buy and use work boots for the job. Footwear should meet the demands of the activity, which can help protect your feet and keep them healthy. Custom orthotics Custom orthotics can help to support the foot and reduce stress on the heel. The goal of orthotics is to redistribute weight and load away from the heel specifically. Physical therapy Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles and tissues in the heel and the foot. A more balanced foot allows muscles to work together in unison without overstressing the heel. Surgery As with bone spurs, the only removal method is surgery. As such, surgery may be an option in more severe cases of heel sours to remove the bony outgrowth entirely, which can help repair damage to the surrounding tissues.

June 19, 2023

Toenail Anatomy: Exploring the Structure and Functions of Different Parts

Toenails serve a critical role in the health of our feet. They are are sensory organs that act like a shield, providing a critical layer of protection. The various parts of the toenail comprise toenail anatomy. These parts work together to protect the underlying tissues of the toe and aid in walking and other activities. Toenails may look like a singular unit, they're actually pretty complex. In this blog post, we'll dive into the structure and functions of the different parts of our toenail anatomy, providing a deeper understanding of this often-overlooked aspect of foot health. Nail plate The nail plate is the hard part of the nail and is comprised of a tough protective protein called alpha-keratin. Keratin adds strength and durability to the nail. The nail plate grows out from the nail matrix. It is translucent, and its colour can vary from white to yellowish-brown, depending on the thickness and the presence of underlying tissues. The end of the nail plate is part of the nail you trim away when clipping your toenails. Nail bed The nail bed is the skin under the nail. It nourishes and supports the nail. The nail bed is composed of blood vessels, nerves, and cells called melanocytes, all of which combine to produce the pigment that gives the nail its colour. When the nail bed is damaged, you may notice your toenail appears to change colour. For instance, your nail bed may produce a purple/darkish colour known as a black toenail, which occurs when the nail bed is damaged and pools blood. Nail matrix Did you know it takes roughly 18 months for a toenail to grow its entire length? This is thanks to the nail matrix, which helps dictate toenail growth. The nail matrix is the part of the nail bed that produces new nail cells. It is at the base of the nail plate, just beneath the cuticle. The nail matrix contains specialized cells called keratinocytes, which produce the protein that forms the nail plate. Lunula The lunula is the crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail plate. It's the actively-growing component of the nail. The lunula is sometimes called the "half-moon" of the nail due to its curvature and half-ringed shape. Cuticle The cuticle is the thin skin layer covering the nail plate's base. It protects new nails from bacteria when they grow from the root, and also helps to keep the nail plate hydrated. Nail folds The nail folds are the skin folds surrounding the sides and base of the nail plate. They help to anchor the nail plate in place and provide support and protection to the surrounding tissues. Nail folds direct the nail growth in the correct direction and shape. When the nail folds are damaged, you may experience horizontal grooves across the nail, known as Beau's lines. Nail groove The nail groove separates the nail plate and the nail fold. It helps to direct water and debris away from the nail bed.

June 1, 2023

The Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Women

When it comes to custom orthotics for women, improved foot health is just around the corner. These days, women from all walks of life are enjoying the benefits of orthotics, from foot pain management to better posture and mobility. These perks combined reduce the average woman's chance of developing a painful foot condition. Let's look at how orthotics are becoming one of the best ways to support women's health. The Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Women Foot pain management Better posture Improved mobility Foot Pain Management Many women spend most of their time on their feet and use custom orthotics to relieve and prevent pain. WebMD notes top orthotic features that accommodate pain: Alignment and support: This corrects imbalances and abnormalities, distributing weight more evenly and reducing strain on the areas of the feet that need a break. Shock absorption and cushioning: Orthotics with shock absorbing qualities reduce the harsh impact of walking on the pavement and ground. Offloading, protection and injury prevention: Orthotics can offload specific areas of the foot or relieve pressure on injured or sensitive areas. This promotes healing and prevents irritation. Women with plantar fasciitis and sore spots on their feet (like blisters, painful corns, etc.) should try "soft orthotics" that have extra cushioning. "Rigid orthotics" are best for daily walking and working on your feet as they prevent strain and the resulting domino effect (pain throughout the lower extremities, hips, knees and back) that comes with wear and tear. If you're interested in orthotics, ask your chiropodist what type are best for your lifestyle. Posture Standing tall and maintaining good posture is important to a lot of women. It can boost self-confidence and mental well-being, but most importantly, it works wonders for your health by keeping your bones and muscles in proper alignment. Since orthotics address the misaligned position of your feet, they are a successful method of improving posture. According to the Journal of Applied Biomechanics, wearing custom orthotics over a certain period can support postural stabilization. This can help women by preventing circulation issues and the vast array of other problems that stem from poor posture. Better Health notes back pain, spinal dysfunction, joint degeneration (which can exacerbate osteoarthritis), rounded shoulders, headaches and muscle fatigue as side effects of bad posture. Improved Mobility For women struggling with daily movements, orthotics can make a world of difference. Many women adopt poor walking gaits to accommodate pain, but don't realize the long-term effects this can have. Moreover, issues like overuse injuries or arthritis can negatively impact quality of life. Luckily, orthotics enhance stability and provide more control with every step, mainly due to the support they give your foot arches. They reduce excessive motion or overpronation (inward rolling of the foot) during walking and ensure each movement has a purpose.

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How To Cut Your Toenails Like a Professional

How To Cut Your Toenails Like a Professional