The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

Written by Tim Huebsch on May 30, 2024

Professional attention to foot health

Callus debridement during medical pedicure

Unlike traditional pedicures, medical pedicures are performed by trained professionals called chiropodists. They prioritize foot health, ensuring your feet are healthy and feel good. Chiropodists are equipped to address various foot conditions such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. They can also notice and diagnose other things that may be cause for concern, like poor circulation, warts, flat feet, and other foot conditions that may be affecting you. Most importantly, chiropodists can provide professional tips and advice on foot care.

Preventative foot and nail care

Regular medical pedicures can help prevent many standard foot problems before they even start. Addressing issues like calluses and ingrown toenails early on can avoid more severe complications. In addition, toenails grow faster in warm weather, so a medical pedicure in the summer is timely.

Customized treatment

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

Medical pedicures are tailored to your specific foot needs. Whether you have dry, cracked heels, thickened toenails, or sensitive skin, the treatment can be adjusted to address your concerns effectively. Chiropodists will assess your feet and recommend the appropriate action, ensuring you receive personalized care at every step.

Hygiene and safety

One of the primary benefits of medical pedicures is the emphasis on hygiene and safety. Sterilized instruments, disposable blades and discs, and stringent cleanliness protocols are standard practice in foot clinics. All cleaning protocols are regulated by Health Canada and the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a safe, worry-free experience, especially those with compromised immune systems or diabetes.

Stress relief

It’s worth remembering the relaxing aspect of a medical pedicure. Beyond the therapeutic benefits for your feet, the experience can be incredibly soothing for your mind and body. Taking time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

Book a medical pedicure at Feet First Clinic

Investing in a medical pedicure is wise as we gear up for summer and prepare to bare our feet. Not only does it address cosmetic concerns, but it also prioritizes foot health and overall well-being. By seeking professional attention for your feet, you’re not just indulging in a luxurious treat; you’re taking proactive steps to ensure your feet stay healthy and happy all season long. So, why wait? Treat yourself by booking a medical pedicure at Feet First Clinic.

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September 8, 2022

10 Reasons to Get a Medical Pedicure

Lately, medical pedicures have been trending, but why? What's all the hype about, and is it worth it? When you think of pedicures, you may think of nail salons, getting your nails done, or another cosmetic version. In practice, medical pedicures are different. They're a blend of foot care and nail care, bringing out the best of both worlds. Medical pedicures combine the aesthetics of nail care (minus the nail polish) with the foot care benefits provided by chiropodists. A medical pedicure addresses this by treating the toenails and skin of the feet while tending to any emerging foot concerns. It’s a therapeutic pedicure - without nail polish - performed by a qualified foot specialist. Think of our medical pedicure service as a maintenance package for your feet. These sessions include a thorough examination of your feet, as well as careful cleaning of your feet, trimming and filing toenails, removing calluses, corns, and dead skin, moisturizing, and more. These are the top 10 reasons why you should consider getting a medical pedicure: Help prevent ingrown toenails Stave off foot odour Remove painful corns Thorough foot examination Professionally cut or trim toenails Safe, private, and sterilized environment Treat fungal toenail infections Moisturizes your feet Callus debridement Cleans your feet to get rid of onychophosis On top of all of the benefits, a medical pedicure may be covered in part or entirely by your insurance provider. Note that it is not covered under OHIP, so check your private insurance benefits ahead of your appointment. Below you'll learn more about medical pedicures and what sets them apart. 1. Medical pedicures can prevent ingrown toenails Feet First Clinic can help treat and prevent ingrown toenails by properly trimming and cutting your nails. Ingrown toenails can be very painful, cause swelling, and even lead to an infection if left ignored. A foot specialist can cut your toenails straight across and ensure there are no stray pieces at the edges. They’ll also ensure you don’t cut the nail too short which can be a precursor to developing an ingrown toenail. 2. Stave off foot odour Pee-ew. That smell could be your feet. Several factors can lead to increased foot odour, like re-using socks or not letting your footwear dry between uses. Additionally, long toenails and dead skin can contribute to foot odour as it's a breeding ground for fungus and bacteria. These latter two contributing factors are addressed during a medical pedicure. 3. Remove painful corns A foot specialist can safely remove a painful corn, a small circular area of thickened, hardened skin. These are usually found on the non-weight bearing, bonier parts of the foot where the skin is thinner, like the toes. 4. A licensed chiropodist examines your feet Medical pedicures act as double-duty for your feet. Not only do you get a direct benefit to your skin and nails, but a licensed chiropodist also can check for irregularities or any foot conditions. For example, they may discover an unrecognized bone spur, flat arch, or even a cut or scratch on your foot that would otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive measure can help address foot conditions or issues before they become serious. 5. Get your nails professionally cut or trimmed Leave it to the professionals to cut or trim your nails. Whether you have a cracked or split toenail, it's not worth exacerbating the issue. Instead of trying to DIY (do-it-yourself), have it done during a medical pedicure to ensure the toenail is trimmed and curved off. 6. Get footwork done in a safe, private, and sterilized environment A medical pedicure is performed at a clinic in a safe, quiet, private, and sterilized environment. Avoid the crowds of nail salons by getting a medical pedicure done in an environment you trust. All treatments from a chiropodist are performed using medical-grade products and a fresh set of sterilized instruments for each client. The sterilization process used by chiropodists will remove and kill all forms of life that should not be transferred between individuals, in particular micro-organisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and spores. Our clinic is conveniently located at 2481 Bloor St W in Toronto, just steps from the Jane subway station. 7. Treat fungal toenail infections Chiropodists treat fungal toenail infections using mechanical reduction of the nail and topical prescription medications. 8. Moisturizes your feet Finish off with your medical pedicure with foot moisturizer. Our foot specialists high-quality medical-strength moisturizing products as part of the treatment. In addition to leaving your feet soft and smooth, effective moisturizing strengthens the skin, restores elasticity, and can help ward off several skin conditions. 9. Callus debridement A chiropodist can remove thickened calluses during a medical pedicure. Calluses are thickened and hardened layers of skin that develop as a result of pressure or friction. It is the skin’s way of protecting itself from these external forces. Calluses may appear yellow, white, or grey in hue and can be accompanied by dry scaling skin and even fissures. Calluses can have some side effects including altering your gait and could lead to other foot conditions if you're not careful. 10. Cleans your feet to eliminate onychophosis During your medical pedicure, a specialist cleans underneath the toenails to eliminate any onychophosis. Onychophosis — the term used for the buildup of skin cells in the nail folds, plate, and cuticles — can cause thickened toenails and lead to other problems as we age. Proactively addressing this buildup is key for preventing future conditions down the line.

July 11, 2024

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

There's always the right tool for the job. Using each tool for its intended purpose is best, or you risk doing more damage than good. That's why fingernail clippers and toenail clippers exist. To understand why, it's important to understand the difference between toenails and fingernails. Toenails are thicker, harder, and grow slower than fingernails because your feet and hands serve different functions. Toenails also have a greater surface area. In this blog post, we explain why you should avoid using fingernail clippers for your toenails and opt for toenail clippers exclusively. Reduce the risk of bacterial or fungal contamination For one, separating your nail tools prevents contamination and possible spread of bacteria and fungus. Given how exposed your hands are every day, you wouldn't want to spread any bacteria to your feet. When in doubt, clean your clippers with 70%—90% isopropyl alcohol. Fingernail clippers may not work on toenails When looking at fingernail vs. toenail clippers, the size difference is stark. Fingernail clippers are smaller, narrower, and curved. Toenail clippers are larger, wider, and straight across, as you should trim your toenails straight across. Cutting them with a curved edge increases your risk of ingrown toenails. If you want more guidance on choosing the tool for your toenails, read our blog post on our top choices for toenail clippers. Limit the risk of cracking and damaging your toenails Using sharp, rigid toenail clippers makes trimming easy and more effective. Using fingernail clippers means you'll need to apply more pressure to cut the nail and risk damaging or even cracking the toenail. If you don’t have the right tools, enough time, or simply the confidence to focus on a nail trim, try a medical pedicure instead. It includes the right nail trimming procedure and includes moisturization, thorough cleaning, and more. Before the nail trim, a chiropodist also examines your feet for other foot conditions. Prevent ingrown toenails You'll also notice the curvature of fingernail vs. toenail clippers. Fingernail clippers are curved and meant to follow the contours of your fingernails. On the other hand, toenails are plateaued and should be cut straight across. Using a curved tool on your toenails puts you at risk of jagged edges, nail splitting, or could be a root cause of ingrown toenails. If you wish, use a nail file to round the edges. This tool is necessary for properly smoothing the edges of the nails. After the trimming, there will likely be some jagged edges, sharp corners, and “spikes.”

July 4, 2024

Tips For When Your Toenail Is on The Verge Of Falling Off

A toenail falling off can be uncomfortable and cause concern about damage to the toenail. The goal is to preserve the toenail's state to prevent further damage. Fortunately, if you take a few proactive steps, you can reduce the discomfort and promote healing. Here are our six tips for managing a toenail on the verge of falling off. 1. Keep the toenail area clean and dry Wash the toenail gently and often. We recommend using mild soap and water to keep it clean. Next, pat dry so as not to snag the toenail with a towel. 2. Cut the nail carefully and slowly Use clean, sterilized nail clippers to remove any dangling or loose portions of the toenail. Cut straight across without digging into the surrounding skin. The goal here is to prevent further snagging or tearing down the road. Improperly cutting your nail may also increase your risk of an ingrown toenail. In addition to trimming the toenail straight across, you should trim the toenail slowly. Don't over-cut it. Be patient with toenail growth. (It may take months to a year for a nail to fully grow out.) If in doubt, let our toenail specialists in Toronto trim your toenails for you as part of a medical pedicure. 3. Use a non-stick bandage to protect the area We recommend applying a bandage or non-sticky wrap to your toe. (Adhesive can attach itself to the toenail and be difficult to peel off without grabbing onto it.) A protective layer keeps an otherwise exposed nail bed safe. Replace the bandage regularly and keep the area dry to promote healing. 4. Antiseptic ointment is your friend Use an antiseptic ointment or petroleum jelly on the exposed nail bed to keep it moisturized and prevent infection. This may help soothe any discomfort from the loose toenail. 5. Choose comfortable and roomier footwear You'll want to reduce pressure as much as possible to prevent a loose toenail from falling off. Given that we wear footwear so often, finding shoes with ample fit can help prevent further damage to the toenails. 6. Avoid intense activity Reduce your activity level if it puts excessive pressure or strain on the affected toenail. For instance, running or high-impact sports like soccer could increase the risk of the toenail getting snagged or torn off. Give your toe some rest, and return to physical activity gradually.

June 24, 2024

Yellow Bottoms of the Feet: What it Means

Oh no, yellow feet! This seemingly alarming skin pigmentation is not usually cause for concern and is far more common than you think. Yellow feet commonly present as yellow bottoms of the feet and are usually not an immediate emergency. That said, they should be looked at during a foot assessment as there may be underlying medical causes or dermatological conditions at play. Let’s review the top culprits for yellow skin on the bottom of your feet. Calluses and Corns If the yellow skin on your feet feels hard to the touch and only occurs in certain spots (the whole foot isn’t yellow), you probably just have a lot of thick calluses! Imagine your feet are like well-trodden paths; the more you walk on them without protective footwear, the thicker and tougher they become, forming “callused armour” which often has a yellow hue. One of the most well-known podiatric concerns, calluses can be treated if they become a problem for hygienic reasons and also to prevent them from becoming more painful, infected or ruining your skin’s integrity and strength. Corns can also cause thick, yellow skin. Calluses and corns can be easily removed by a chiropodist using sterilized, medical-grade equipment. Read more about how our chiropodists treat calluses. Hyperkeratosis A dermatological condition called hyperkeratosis causes excessive hard and yellow calluses that can cover the majority of the bottom of your foot. When combined like this they can be a lot worse than solitary calluses and are more likely to crack, bleed, and hurt. Carotenemia You are what you eat! And in this case, you may be eating too many carotene-rich foods (like carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins — anything orange!) if the entire bottom of your foot has a mild, yellow hue. The good news? This is harmless. While noticing this effect on the bottom of the feet can be disconcerting, it may also occur on your face, which might have a positive effect on your confidence. Studies show these mild, facial skin changes can contribute to the overall appearance of health and vitality in humans. Pretty cool! Jaundice Jaundice is a serious occurrence that points to a poorly functioning liver, gallbladder or pancreas. Your doctor will help you determine the root cause. A tell-tale sign that you’re experiencing jaundice is if the yellow colour is quite strong, and if the whites of your eyes are also yellow (sclera). If you don’t have any other symptoms outside of mildly yellow feet, it’s unlikely you have jaundice, but it’s better to be safe than sorry! Fungal Infections Athlete’s foot causes flaky and itchy skin clusters around your toes and the ball of the foot. They look red or pink when irritated, but sometimes turn whitish yellow. Don’t try to treat this at home - you might damage your skin and nail health. Seek guidance from your local Toronto foot clinic instead! They can point you towards the right ointments, creams and other treatments. Learn more about treatment and prevention. Anemia This medical condition affects your red blood cells and impairs oxygen flow throughout your body. The entire foot or entire bottom of the foot will have a bright, yet mild, yellow tint. If your feet are cold to the touch in addition to being yellow, you might have anemia.

June 20, 2024

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

At first glance, our toenails look like a single nail, and that's about it. However, beneath the surface is a more complex structure that makes up the nail and the bed below it. This is our toenail anatomy. Toenails and fingernails are made of Keratin. Keratin is a type of protein that gives the nail strength and protection. (There are many types of Keratin. It also comprises hair and your epidermis.) Toenails differ from fingernails in a few ways, namely their thickness and growth rate, as the external forces on your toenails are greater than those on your hands. Today, we explore toenail anatomy and how each component affects foot health. Layers of the toenail Nail plate The nail plate is the easiest part of the toenail anatomy to recognize. It's the nail itself. The colour and texture of the nail plate can vary based on factors like health, genetics, and lifestyle habits. Nail bed Next, we go a bit deeper. The nail bed is beneath the nail plate. Just like sheets and blankets are the nail plate, imagine the nail bed is the mattress or bed frame below. The nail bed is a layer of skin that nourishes the nail as it contains blood vessels and nerves. It is also the growth engine behind the nail plate. If you damage the nail bed, you'll notice nail plate abnormalities or reduced growth rates. Sometimes, a damaged nail bed will cause you to lose a toenail or experience a discoloured toenail. A subungual hematoma occurs within the nail bed and can cause a black toenail. Lunula The lunula, or "half-moon," is the pale, crescent-shaped area visible at the base of the nail. It represents the edge of the nail matrix, where new nail cells are generated. Eventually, nail growth from the lunula extends out to the outer edges of the nail, at which point you'd trim them. Nail matrix The nail matrix is the tissue beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. It produces new nail cells, pushing older cells forward and resulting in nail growth. Damage to the nail matrix can affect the quality and growth rate of the toenail. Each nail matrix produces 196 layers of cells that combine to make your toenails.

June 6, 2024

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

Our feet and toes change in various ways as we age. One of these changes is toenail thickening. For some of us, toenail thickening can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can make it difficult to cut and maintain our toenails, and can even cause pain and discomfort. In this article, we'll explain the causes of thickened toenails, and some possible treatments. Why Do Toenails Thicken with Age? Nails are made from a protein called keratin, which is produced at the nail plate at the base of the nail. Nail growth happens when nail cells multiply within the base of the nail and are pushed forward. However, as we age, the growth rate slows down, so the nail cells just pile up on top of each other, which causes them to get increasingly thicker. Toenail thickening is often a result of several factors: Reduced blood circulation The most common cause of toenail thickening is decreased blood circulation to our feet. This diminished circulation means fewer nutrients and oxygen reach the toenails, causing them to thicken over time. Age is one of the risk factor for reduced blood circulation to the feet. Natural wear and tear Years of use can damage our toenails. Factors such as ill-fitting shoes, repetitive stress from activities like running or walking, and even minor trauma can contribute to thickening. Essentially, when our toenails experience trauma, they thicken to protect themselves. As we age, wear and tear on our toenails can accumulate, which can cause them to thicken. Fungal infections Older individuals are more prone to fungal infections of the toenails, which can cause thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. These infections often thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or communal areas. Underlying health conditions Medical conditions like psoriasis, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease can also influence toenail health. These conditions affect circulation, which in turn slows toenail growth and causes toenails to thicken. Tips for toenail care as you age As you age, proactive steps can be taken to maintain healthy toenails and minimize thickening. By following these tips, you can feel more in control of your foot health and well-being. Regular trimming Toenail thickening can make trimming and maintaining your toenails extremely difficult. Fortunately, a licensed chiropodist is trained to specifically deal with this. A licensed chiropodist can ensure your toenails are trimmed properly to prevent ingrown toenails, promote healthy toenail growth and reduce thickening. A licensed chiropodist can also use special tools over the toenail to thin it out, which will make the toenail easier to cut and maintain. Best of all, this is all done in a sterilized environment, so you don't need to worry about fungal infections (did you know 52% of people get fungal infections after visiting nail salons?) If you decide to trim your toenails at home, make sure you invest in quality toenail clippers and avoid cutting them too short. Proper foot hygiene Wash your feet daily with soap and water, ensuring they dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Also, wear flip flops in public spaces to avoid contracting fungal infections. Comfortable footwear Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid narrow or tight shoes that can put pressure the toenails and contribute to thickening. Moisturize regularly Apply moisturizer to your feet to keep the skin and nails hydrated. This can prevent cracking and thickening of the toenails, especially in dry climates. Foot protection Wear protective footwear in risky environments like communal areas or outdoors. This can help prevent injury and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Manage underlying conditions If you have underlying health issues like diabetes, it's important to remember that they can be effectively managed. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can improve foot circulation and reduce the risk of complications like toenail thickening.

May 30, 2024

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

As summer approaches, our feet emerge from the confines of socks and boots, ready to step into sandals and flip-flops. However, after months of neglect and hiding, our feet may not be in the best condition to be on display. This is where medical pedicures come in—a treatment that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Let's delve into the benefits of medical pedicures and why they should be on everyone's summer to-do list. Professional attention to foot health Unlike traditional pedicures, medical pedicures are performed by trained professionals called chiropodists. They prioritize foot health, ensuring your feet are healthy and feel good. Chiropodists are equipped to address various foot conditions such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. They can also notice and diagnose other things that may be cause for concern, like poor circulation, warts, flat feet, and other foot conditions that may be affecting you. Most importantly, chiropodists can provide professional tips and advice on foot care. Preventative foot and nail care Regular medical pedicures can help prevent many standard foot problems before they even start. Addressing issues like calluses and ingrown toenails early on can avoid more severe complications. In addition, toenails grow faster in warm weather, so a medical pedicure in the summer is timely. Customized treatment Medical pedicures are tailored to your specific foot needs. Whether you have dry, cracked heels, thickened toenails, or sensitive skin, the treatment can be adjusted to address your concerns effectively. Chiropodists will assess your feet and recommend the appropriate action, ensuring you receive personalized care at every step. Hygiene and safety One of the primary benefits of medical pedicures is the emphasis on hygiene and safety. Sterilized instruments, disposable blades and discs, and stringent cleanliness protocols are standard practice in foot clinics. All cleaning protocols are regulated by Health Canada and the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a safe, worry-free experience, especially those with compromised immune systems or diabetes. Stress relief It's worth remembering the relaxing aspect of a medical pedicure. Beyond the therapeutic benefits for your feet, the experience can be incredibly soothing for your mind and body. Taking time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

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The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

Professional attention to foot health

Preventative foot and nail care

Customized treatment

Hygiene and safety

Stress relief

Book a medical pedicure at Feet First Clinic

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Related Posts

10 Reasons to Get a Medical Pedicure

Why You Shouldn’t Use Fingernail Clippers for Your Toenails

Tips For When Your Toenail Is on The Verge Of Falling Off

Yellow Bottoms of the Feet: What it Means

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

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