Ahh, spring is finally here and as we start to enjoy warmer temperatures, you may begin to notice the condition of your feet. You may have neglected them since the weather has been cold and who's going to see them anyway, right? Well, with the warmer weather many women go to nail salons to get pedicures. If you're like many women who frequent these establishments, you should know that you're playing "Russian Roulette" with the possibility of contracting a fungal infection or possibly warts.
However, it's not all bad news, because there are some preventative measures you can take to decrease your chances of contracting an infection. First, perform a "gut check" when you walk into the nail salon. What is your initial reaction to the salon? Is it clean and tidy? It will probably be busy with customers but it's important not to overlook the small details. Second, since there is no definite way to be sure that the nail instruments being used have been thoroughly sterilized, bring your own sterile equipment and request that the employees use only what you bring. Third, bring your own nail polish and toe separators. This is a step that is often overlooked because you may think that the chemicals in the nail polish may kill bacteria or fungus or not allow it to grow. That is a common misconception that can buy you a fungal infection. The nail polish brush is repeatedly dipped into the container and then applied to your toe. Do you know who picked that color before you? Maybe that person had a fungal nail infection. This is especially important for toe separators. Studies have shown that the second most common area for bacterial and fungal contamination is between the toes, the first being the nail folds. Next, bring your own shoes to wear once your treatment is complete. If the salon has new one-time use disposable shoes to wear, those are fine, provided you see that they are removed from the package in your presence. These precautions are not meant to alarm you but just to make you aware of the issues and help you be an advocate for your foot health.
Many women get pedicures because they have ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis), and they want broken or thickened nails trimmed. Be warned, it is not wise to substitute a pedicure for appropriate medical treatment. Nail technicians performing the pedicures are not medical professionals and may not be aware that the discoloration of your toenails is a sign of a fungal infection called onychomycosis. Diabetics risk injury to your feet or toes which can lead to a serious infection requiring hospitalization. Many times minor nicks and cuts can occur during the course of your pedicure, which can be dangerous for individuals that are diabetic. Pedicures should not be painful; if it is, then tell them to stop. Also, you want to be sure that the individual performing your pedicure is not overzealous in pushing back and/or cutting the cuticles. Bleeding can occur if the cuticle is pushed back too far. this cut can lead to a painful skin infection. Another area of concern is if you have dry, cracked skin on your feet as this can leave your feet vulnerable to infections, since the breaks in your skin can allow easy passage of bacteria and viruses.
Always remember, if you have any toenail or foot problem, it is best to seek professional podiatric care as soon as possible.
