How to File Toenails

File toenails properly to prevent health complications if you have diabetes.

Proper toenail care is important for everyone, but especially those with diabetes. According to the Joslin Diabetes Center, diabetics should not cut their own nails because cutting them poorly could lead to ingrown toenails, which in turn could lead to infection because of their feet's poor circulation. Using nail clippers may also cause problems for those with thick toenails. Filing nails is a good alternative for those who shouldn't use a nail clipper.

Things You'll Need

• Emery board

Instructions

1. Wash your feet with a mild soap and warm water. Rinse them thoroughly and allow your feet to dry completely before filing.

2. File nails straight across in one direction with an emery board. Emery boards are less stressful than metal nail files. Filing nails right to left or left to right is preferable to back-and-forth filing, which can cause cracking and splitting.

3. File only as far as the end of the toe. Filing nails shorter can cause ingrown toenails.

References

• Joslin Diabetes Center: Check Your Feet Every Day!
• Ohio State University; Daily Foot Care and Foot Safety; January 2008