Diabetes and pedicures: Are they safe?

Having diabetes means you are at higher risk for a number of problems from getting a pedicure. This depends on a variety of factors including how well controlled your diabetes is and if you have sensation in your feet.

The most important is to make sure the salon you choose is extremely clean. Check into your technician's training: Are they licensed? Do they sterilize the tools? Is the water in the basin clean? You could also bring your own tools.

Foot baths should be cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectant after each client. Even the pipes that carry the water can introduce bacteria. "Pipeless" pedicure chairs or an individual bucket or bowl are better options.

Tools should be autoclaved in a special device that sterilizes. It is doubtful that many places use these machines so it is best to find one that does. ALso, you could bring your own tools that are clean or have your doctor or podiatrist autoclave themf or you.

Always tell your pedicurist that you have diabetes. Make sure that they don't make the water too hot and that they don't clip or push back your cuticles. They also need to cut your toenails straight across. Never let them dig out an "ingrown toenail." You should never let anybody but a trained doctor take a sharp instrument like a blade to your feet.

If you aren't sure if it is safe to get a pedicure because you are diabetic, it is best if you visit your foot doctor first for advice. You may be covered to have your nails taken care of at the office and you can get a pedicure just to file and paint your nails which is much less risky. Your podiatrist can tell you what risks you have and what may be best for you.