Are you cutting your nails correctly?

For most people, cutting nails is a pretty ordinary event. For people with diabetes however, it is a matter that requires utmost care and attention. If they suffer a small cut when cutting, a lack of care can allow the toe became necrotic. Without follow up management, amputation could be required.

Tips:

• Don't use small nail clippers. They are hard to handle and to apply force with. Elderly people should use nail clippers with an attached magnifying glass.
• Cut your nails in a well-lit environment so you can see what you're doing.
• Don't let nails grow overly long or trim them too short.
• To avoid painful ingrown nails, don't cut the sides of the nail too deep.
• After cutting, use a file to grind down and shape the edges of the nails.
• Visit a dermatologist if corns, calluses, fungal infections, or onychomycosis (gray nails) are found on the foot. Do not attempt to manage these by yourself.

Source | American Diabetes Association