Why do they feel pain to cut their toenails?
Looking to understand the reason for the pain in the toenails of the elderly?
Toenail pain in the elderly is a very common problem. Learn more in this article.
The complaint of pain in the toenails among the elderly is quite recurrent. Especially when members of this age group need to cut their nails.
This pain, in addition to being common, can greatly interfere with the patient's quality of life. Even so, a large part of the elderly do not seek treatment, attributing the discomfort to their “age”.
Although the natural aging process contributes to conditions that are favorable to the onset of pain, as explained in this article, it can and should be treated!
Remember: experiencing constant pain should never be considered normal, regardless of age. So if your feet or nails hurt, make an appointment with a specialist today.
Below, you will find everything you need to clarify your doubts about pain in the toenails of the elderly. Check out:
What Causes Elderly Toenail Pain?
Usually, pain in the toenails of the elderly is due to one of the main effects of aging: the decrease in cell renewal capacity.
In feet and nails, the result of this reduced renewal is greater dryness. Lack of hydration, in turn, causes thickening of the nails and fearful pain when cutting.
That's why it's so important to always monitor the look of your nails. In case of changes in thickness, color or any other characteristic, it is important to seek an expert.
Another contributing factor to toenail pain in the elderly is vascular deficiency. This is a common problem among older people, and it tends to make the feet more sensitive. In addition, it makes healing difficult and can make injuries more serious.
-> Read also: Why do elderly and diabetics have more ringworm and are more difficult to treat?
How is it possible to minimize the discomfort of elderly toenail pain?
It is not because the pain in the toenails of the elderly is common that patients should simply get used to it! There are many treatments available for foot pain.
In addition, healthy habits and some care can delay the onset or prevent pain completely. Look:
- Drink water: Hydration from the inside out is the best way to keep your feet - and body - healthy! In addition, drinking plenty of water also improves circulation, preventing swelling and numerous other problems.
- Walk: Walking improves circulation and also helps your body stay active and functioning properly. This is a low-impact physical activity that can be practiced by people of all ages.
- Daily Movements: Lower and lift your feet, and make circular movements. The important thing about this type of exercise is to feel that you are working your calf.
In addition to these healthy habits, it is also worth paying attention to some specific precautions that can help prevent pain in the toenails of the elderly:
Basic foot care for seniors
- Examine and wash your feet daily;
- Dry your feet well after showering, especially between your toes;
- Avoid very hot water;
- Cut your toenails regularly and straight, not too short. If there is a risk of injury or if the finger is already injured, consult a podiatrist before cutting;
- Keep your feet hydrated at all times;
In the case of corns, it is important to avoid sanding the area, and especially stay away from sharp objects. Look for a specialized professional to treat the cause of the problem.
Choosing the right shoe for seniors
An inappropriate shoe can cause calluses, blisters and injuries. And even more dangerous: it can harm the balance and mobility of the elderly, causing falls.
Learn how to choose the best shoe for seniors and avoid features that potentially cause problems:
- Avoid shoes with internal seams, which can hurt your feet;
- The internal space must be enough to accommodate the feet at the end of the day, when they are more swollen;
- Consider purchasing tools that help when putting on shoes, such as shoehorns.
- Prefer closure with Velcro, both for ease and to prevent the shoelaces from tightening the feet;
- The sole must not be slippery.
- Shoes that taper at the front can greatly worsen the sensitivity and pain of older people's toenails, in addition to contributing to problems such as ingrown toenails.
- Shoes should be comfortable, not hurting, and easy to put on and close.
A podiatrist can help treat the cause of the problem!
These tips and precautions, however, serve to prevent or alleviate the problem of pain in the toenails of the elderly. What to do, then, if the pains have already appeared?
One thing is certain: there is no point in applying compresses and pain creams without discovering and treating the cause of the problem.
Therefore, it is very important to follow up with a specialist. This professional will be able to identify what is causing the pain and help you with treatments.
For example, let's assume that the most common cause of toenail pain, cited above, is thickening of the nail due to a drop in cell reproduction.
The podiatrist can use various treatment methods to thin the nail again, reducing sensitivity. In addition, he will give you personalized guidance on the best procedures for your case, including how to choose the best footwear and how to keep your feet healthier.
Make an appointment with us today. Your feet deserve all the affection!
