Cutting Toenails

Keeping your toenails in shape is an important part of healthy foot care. Toenails are made of keratin, a protein that is found in hair. Although toenails grow much slower than fingernails, you still need to care for them by cutting and trimming them regularly.

Some people don’t think much about their toenails due to the fact that they are 'out of sight.' It might be more common to take care of fingernails since you see and use your hands more frequently. However, caring for toenails is crucial too.

How Do Long Toenails Effect Our Toes & Feet?

If you allow your toenails to go without trimming or cutting them, they will become longer over time and could start to affect your toes and feet. For one thing, long toenails can have a sharp edge that may cut into the toe next to it. If this happens, it could lead to an infection. Additionally, long toenails may get so long that they bump into the edge of the shoe. Over time, this can lead to trauma to the toenail. Finally, long toenails could even make it difficult to walk as the irritation of the nail is rubbing against the shoe.

Symptoms and Risks

People who have difficulty reaching their toenails are at risk of them getting too long. If it is hard for you to cut or trim your own toenails, you could develop toenails that are too long. When this occurs, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Bruising or breakage of the toenail as it rubs against the surface of your shoe
• Thickening of the nail, making it more difficult to cut
• Toenails becoming jagged and cutting into your other toes, causing infection or inflammation
• Toenails beginning to curl under the toe’s edge

How Can A Podiatrist Help Treat Long Toenails?

If you are at risk of having long toenails or they already are long, you can seek help from a podiatrist. A podiatrist, such as the one at Port Stephens Foot Clinic, will provide professional care for your toenail issue. When you come into the office, someone will help you remove your shoes and prepare the foot for toenail cutting.

A podiatrist will ensure that the toenail is cut at just the right length so that it is not too short, causing irritation or pain. They will also ensure that it is not left too long so that it rubs against your shoe or is at risk of hurting your other toes. The podiatrist at Port Stephens Foot Clinic is experienced in trimming toenails and dealing with any problems you have associated with long toenails.

Schedule Your Appointment With A Podiatrist Today!

Get started by scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist at Port Stephens Foot Clinic. Our certified podiatrist will ensure you have a pampered experience in a professional setting. Don’t let your toenails go another day. We can help you keep your feet and toenails in great shape for optimal foot care. Reach out to us today.