Does a Podiatrist Cut Toenails?
A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in treating conditions related to the feet, ankles and lower legs. One of the many services podiatrists provide is trimming and cutting toenails. Keep reading to learn more about whether podiatrists cut toenails and why you may want to see a podiatrist for toenail care.
What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical professional who has undergone specialized training to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the lower extremities. Podiatrists attend podiatry school after completing a 4 year undergraduate degree. Podiatry school consists of 4 years of training in medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle.
After completing podiatry school, podiatrists must pass national and state board exams to obtain their license to practice podiatry. In addition to their medical training, podiatrists often complete 1-3 year residencies focused on surgery, sports medicine, wound care or other specialties related to foot and ankle care.
Once licensed, podiatrists are able to provide both medical and surgical care for foot and ankle conditions. They can order and analyze diagnostic tests like x-rays, MRI scans and blood work. Podiatrists can prescribe medications, physical therapy, orthotics, and other conservative treatments. They are also trained to perform surgery when necessary.
Why See a Podiatrist for Toenail Care?
Podiatrists receive extensive training in proper foot care, including nail care. They understand nail anatomy and what causes toenails to become thickened, discolored, brittle or ingrown. Podiatrists can diagnose and treat underlying conditions contributing to nail problems.
Seeing a podiatrist for toenail care offers several advantages:
- Expert diagnosis - Podiatrists can determine the underlying cause of unhealthy nails and provide appropriate treatment.
- Permanent solutions - Podiatrists can provide treatments beyond just cutting nails, leading to long-lasting improvements.
- Medications - Podiatrists can prescribe medications to treat infections or other conditions affecting the nails.
- Surgery - Podiatrists can surgically remove part or all of an ingrown or fungal toenail.
- Prevention - Podiatrists provide guidance on proper nail hygiene to prevent future problems.
In addition to these advantages, visiting a podiatrist helps ensure proper nail care techniques are used to avoid infection or injury. Podiatrists use sterile instruments and have training to safely cut thickened or ingrown nails.
Common Nail Conditions Treated by Podiatrists
Here are some of the most common toenail conditions that can be treated by a podiatrist:
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This often happens on the big toe. Ingrown nails can become red, swollen and painful. Podiatrists can trim ingrown sections of nail and provide additional treatments to prevent recurrence. In severe cases, they may surgically remove part or all of the nail.
Fungal Nail Infections
Toenail fungus causes thickening, discoloration and brittleness of the nails. Oral or topical antifungal medications may be prescribed. For serious infections, the nail may need to be surgically removed so the new nail can grow in free of fungus.
Damaged Nails
Trauma, tight shoes, and improper nail trimming can damage nails. Podiatrists can trim and file damaged nails to a normal shape. They also help identify and modify behaviors that lead to nail damage.
Nail Disorders
Diseases like psoriasis and lichen planus can affect nail appearance and texture. Podiatrists can provide medications and nail care instructions to manage these and other nail disorders.
What to Expect When Visiting a Podiatrist
The first appointment with a podiatrist will involve discussing your nail concerns and medical history. The podiatrist will examine your feet and nails. Diagnostic tests like blood work or a nail biopsy may be ordered.
At follow up visits, the podiatrist will trim overgrown, thickened or ingrown sections of toenail. Appropriate techniques and tools will be used based on the condition being treated. For fungal or damaged nails, debridement using a drill may smooth and thin the nails.
If prescribed, the podiatrist can administer medications through shots or other methods. Discussions will take place on proper at-home foot hygiene and nail care.
If needed, surgical nail procedures can be performed in the office. Follow ups are scheduled to monitor healing and prevent recurrence of nail problems.
Aftercare Following Nail Procedures
Proper aftercare is important following nail procedures by a podiatrist. Anti-bacterial soaks, antibiotic ointments and bandaging may be used on treated nails. Pain medication can provide relief following surgical procedures. Limiting activity to allow healing may be recommended.
The podiatrist will provide instructions on keeping the nails and feet clean and dry. They will advise when normal activities can be resumed. Follow ups will take place to monitor healing and discuss preventative care.
The Bottom Line
Podiatrists receive specialized medical training to treat toenail and foot conditions. They are experts in safely and effectively trimming thickened, ingrown or fungal nails. Visiting a podiatrist for nail care can help resolve underlying causes and lead to long-term improvements.
Make an appointment with a podiatrist if you are dealing with painful, thickened, ingrown or discolored nails. The podiatrist will determine the best treatment plan to get your nails healthy again.
FAQs
What education does a podiatrist have?
Podiatrists must complete a 4-year podiatry degree after finishing undergraduate studies. They graduate with a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and must pass national and state board exams to be licensed.
When should I see a podiatrist for toenails?
See a podiatrist if you have thickened, ingrown, discolored or brittle toenails. Also see a podiatrist for painful nails or nails with persistent infections or fungus.
What procedures do podiatrists perform on nails?
Podiatrists can trim and shape overgrown or ingrown nails. For fungal or damaged nails, they may thin the nails using a drill. In severe cases, they can surgically remove part or all of a nail.
How can I prevent future toenail problems?
Prevention involves properly trimming nails, wearing well-fitted shoes, alternating shoes, sock changing, keeping feet clean and dry, and avoiding nail damage. Podiatrists can advise on proper nail hygiene.
Do I need to see my primary doctor first for toenail issues?
You can see a podiatrist directly without a referral. However, it's a good idea to keep your primary doctor updated on foot problems in case they relate to other health conditions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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