Where Did You Pick Up That Toenail Fungus?

​All of a sudden--out of nowhere--you start to notice this slight itch and burning sensation on your feet that you have never experienced before along with a slight smell and a host of other foot problems like discolored nails. You ponder to yourself and wonder what is happening to your feet! Could it be foot fungus? It’s quite possible! 

Pedicurist deal with feet daily and often can recognize what the characteristics are as it pertains to toenail fungus. Pedicurists' are not licensed to diagnose or treat such conditions; but can observe, refer & provide short-term remedial suggestions until the client is able to see their Podiatrist for proper treatment and evaluations. Nail lifting-(onycholysis), scaling skin, pungent smells and discolored nails are all common with people who have fungal infections of the toenails and surrounding skin on the feet. 

Clients who contract fungi of the toenails and feet often wonder how they picked up this pesky fungus. There are several ways a person can unintentionally "pick-up" toenail or foot fungus. Walking barefoot in public areas like gym shower stalls, bathrooms and on bare floors is a common way to contract this infection. Frequenting salon parlors that do not practice proper sanitation methods is on the top of the list as a common mode of transferring the fungal organism. Pedicures are such an enjoyable treat for many and on average, most people will frequent at least two salons in a given year if not more.  Salon hopping is definitely not recommended if you are trying to safeguard yourself from contracting infections of the feet. Developing a good rapport with one salon establishment that you are comfortable with is the best option to maintain good foot health and sanitation. Building a relationship with one salon for pedicure services will put you, as the client, in a better position to rebuttal any concerns that may arise should you ever experience any complications with your feet that were brought about by your Pedicurist. However, if you are frequenting multiple salons, unfortunately, should something happen there is no way for you to determine where you may have contracted your fungal infection.

Aside from getting pedicures, proper foot health begins and ends with a footcare regimen that should be practiced at home. Keeping the feet clean and changing out your socks daily is a major plus. If your feet are prone to sweating or if you are a person that plays sports; using an antibacterial shoe spray will help to eliminate fungal spores from the inside of your shoes. If you have been properly diagnosed by your physician with a fungal infection of the toenails and feet, it is mandatory that you use your prescribed topicals as directed by your Physician or Podiatrist. It is always recommended that you seek the guidance of your physician, however, there are various holistic remedies that have been made available that some people have tried with great results.

Another question that is often of concern; is whether a potential client can be serviced by a Pedicurist with a toenail fungal issue. Every state has varying limitations and stipulations in regards to this matter. Referral partnerships between Podiatrist and Advanced Pedicurist is becoming common place in the world of Pedicuring and footcare and often this complementary pairing of both industries can better enhance the overall experience of the client/patient relationship.

If your Physician or Podiatrist gives the green light for you to have your feet done at a salon or by a Pedicurist; find out if the salon has the proper sterilization practices and necessary tools to handle fungal nails. 

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The Traveling Pedicurist is located in North Carolina
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