A to Z Nursing Foot Care

08/13/2021

Cracked heels are a common foot problem. The first sign of getting cracked heel is the development of dry, hard, thickened skin around the rim of the heel. This is called a callus and may be a yellow or dark brown discoloured area of skin. Initially, small cracks over the callus are visible. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, these cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing will be painful. The cracks may be so deep that they begin to bleed.

So moisturize and keep moisturizing. Your feet are just that important! 🦶🦶

If you or your loved one requires some care for their feet, I'd be happy to help!

06/21/2021

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. Your big toe is most likely to get an ingrown toenail.

Many things can cause an ingrown toenail, including:

• cutting toenails incorrectly (Cut straight across, since angling the sides of the nail can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.)

• irregular, curved toenails

• footwear that places a lot of pressure on the big toes, such as socks and stockings that are too tight or shoes that are too tight, narrow, or flat for your feet

• toenail injury, including stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or kicking a ball repeatedly

• poor posture

• improper foot hygiene, such as not keeping your feet clean or dry

• genetic predisposition

If your toe becomes infected, symptoms may include:

• red, swollen skin

• pain

• bleeding

• oozing pus

• overgrowth of skin around the toe

Treat your ingrown toenail as soon as possible to avoid worsening symptoms.

06/16/2021

“Shoes that are too tight, too loose or without enough support, can lead to unwanted stress on the feet, ankles, lower leg, hip and spine,” according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Here are things to consider when buying shoes:

• Heel: Needs a broad base and be no longer than one-and-a-half inches

• Sole: Should be cushioned and have enough grip to prevent slipping.

• Linings: Made of smooth, seam-free breathable materials to keep the foot fresh.

• Toe box: Enough room for “toes to wiggle”. Make sure there’s half an inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. There should be enough width in the shoe to accommodate your whole foot – there should be no pressure on the joints on the sides of your foot.

Also, shopping for shoes in the afternoon is advisable, as feet tend to swell a bit during the day.

06/14/2021

06/08/2021

As a mobile Foot Care Nurse it is important for my clients to know that I am fully vaccinated. So I can protect them and my loved ones from Covid-19. Let's do our part and get vaccinated. Stay safe and healthy! We are all in this together!

06/07/2021

The feet experience more wear and tear in a lifetime than any other body part and reportedly are the most neglected part of the body.

Foot care nurses receive education specific to the prevention, diagnosis and management of common foot conditions and are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the clients.
- (Manitoba Association of Foot Care Nurses)