How to Avoid Infections at the Nail Salon

First rule to remember is that not all nail salons are created equal and therefore should be chosen very carefully. Make sure that you find a salon that has obvious cleaning procedures in place between clients and where the staff routinely sterilizes their instruments. Do not feel bad for setting high standards about hygienic practices when deciding on a salon, this will enable you to truly relax and not have to worry while you are being pampered. Here are a few more tips to follow to ensure a pleasant visit without any unwelcome outcomes.

1. Bring your own instruments- This allows you to be sure of how the instruments are maintained and cleaned therefore lowering the risk of infection. Check with your chosen salon first to make sure that they are aware of your preference to do so.
2. Avoid Cuts- If your skin has an opening like a cut or scratch of any kind, it is not a good time to attend a nail salon. Your skin is your primary barrier that stops bacteria from getting into your bloodstream. You should also be cautious of shaving your legs right before getting a pedicure for the same reasons.
3. Defend your cuticles- Your cuticles are meant to prevent bacteria from getting underneath the skin by your nail bed. Pedicurist will push back and trim this skin away thus opening your toes up to infection. Just simply ask them to leave your cuticles alone. This will eliminate another opportunity for bacteria to get in.

Plantar Warts Can Be Pesky

Plantar warts are seen in all age groups, but they are most common among children 12-16 years of age and rare in the elderly. These benign (noncancerous) growths occur on the sole, heel or ball of the foot and are diagnosed based on their appearance. Plantar warts occur when the human papilloma virus (HPV) invades the body through the skin on the bottom of the feet typically through cuts or breaks. The virus is often present on contaminated surfaces, such as tile floors of public locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. If you frequent any of these places, Dr. Mark Forman suggests wearing shoes while walking around.

When first diagnosed, individuals often feel a “lump” on the bottom of the foot when standing, similar to having a stone in the shoe. If left untreated, plantar warts can grow up to one inch in circumference and may spread into clusters called mosaic warts. In severe cases, they can cause a change in posture that results in leg or back pain. Plantar warts are rarely an emergency, but you should call Dr. Forman to find effective treatment options for you.

If you notice your feet becoming increasingly dry, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide visit www.azfootpain.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Forman in Scottsdale, AZ, call 480-423-8400.

Xerosis: Dry Skin on Your Feet

Dry skin, also called xerosis is a very common skin condition that occurs at all ages and affects numerous parts of the body, including the feet. Skin that’s involved may appear dehydrated, peeled, irritated and inflamed. It can also feel rough, scaly, and sometimes itchy. Skin becomes dry when it loses too much water and natural oils. If you’ve typically had normal skin on your feet and notice them becoming increasingly dry, Dr. Mark Forman can help.

Xerosis is the medical term for abnormally dry skin. Dry skin is common, especially in the elderly and people who live in dry climates. It is usually a minor and temporary problem, but may cause discomfort to those affected. Your skin needs moisture to stay smooth, which is why it’s important to keep hydrated every day. There are several factors that can cause xerosis such as bathing or showering habitually more than once a day, not applying lotion to re-moisturize the area, and using excessively hot water while showering or bathing. Using a moisturizer frequently throughout the day may help relieve symptoms. However, if the condition persists more than two weeks, this could indicate an infection and you may want to call Dr. Forman.

If you notice your feet becoming increasingly dry, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide visit www.azfootpain.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Forman in Scottsdale, AZ, call 480-423-8400.