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Read our Q&A with our Podiatrist
Learn more about podiatry from our very own Podiatrist. This will cover everything you need to know about looking after feet and toenails during cancer treatment, and even after.
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Our Podiatrists are experienced in dealing with all types of foot conditions and have specialist knowledge in problems experienced during cancer treatment.
Chemotherapy treatment can affect a patient’s nails, causing discolouration and making them more brittle and prone to breakage. Onycholysis (the loosening or separation of a finger or toenail from the nail bed), onychocryptosis (ingrowing toenail) and paronychia (skin infection around a finger or toenail) are the most common conditions that we treat.
Chemotherapy can also induce peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage in the hands and feet which can lower the patients' immune system leaving them more at risk of infection. By offering our podiatry service we can assist with both direct treatment but also by providing advice on personal nail care when it is appropriate for the patient to self-manage or with assistance from a family member.
This service is available in the Wellbeing Centre and our satellite locations. For more information please call us on 0141 301 7667.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut or file my nails?
It is a personal preference. It may be easier to file your nails regularly and keep them in good order after they have been trimmed to a suitable length.
Should I cut my toenails straight across?
Follow the natural shape of your toe and the final length should lie just below the tip of the toe. Avoid cutting into the corners.
Can I use scissors to cut my nails?
Yes, if that’s what works well for you and is what you are comfortable using. Nail clippers give you a bit more control than scissors and using the point of the nail clippers can allow you to work across the nail in small stages.
When is the best time to cut or file my toenails?
Whenever is a convenient time for you. Some people find it easier to cut their nails after bathing their feet when the nails are a bit softer. Filing is best carried out when the feet are dry so do this before bathing. You don’t need to cut or file all your nails at one go – you can do a few one day and so on.
What if my toe bleeds when cutting my nails?
Clean the area with lukewarm water and apply light pressure with a piece of cotton wool or cloth. Cover the cut with a clean dressing and leave in place for 48 hours. Contact your GP practice for advice if you are worried that the area is not healing properly.
Why doesn’t the podiatrist cut my nails?
Looking after your nails is something that most people can do for themselves and is part of personal care. Podiatrists have specialist skills in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of abnormal conditions that affect the feet and legs.
Where can I buy footcare equipment such as clippers and files?
Nail clippers and files can be bought from high street stores, local pharmacies, mail order or on the internet. Cardboard, polystyrene or metal files are all suitable.
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