Description
Today on Dr. Nail Nipper, we're catching up with Marlene, a longtime patient who was born with spina bifida. During this visit, we check her toenails, clean up calluses, discuss dry and scaly skin, and examine two small spots on her toes that have not healed in about a month.
She Can't Feel Her Feet! Why Regular Podiatrist Visits Matter - https://youtu.be/l0TDnaxBMAw
Marlene has no feeling in her feet, which makes regular foot checks especially important. When you can't feel pain, a small scrape or pressure injury may go unnoticed. That's why looking at your feet regularly and keeping up with podiatry appointments can make such a difference.
👣 WHAT YOU'LL SEE IN THIS VIDEO
• A real podiatry appointment with Marlene
• Two small areas on her toes that haven't healed
• How a podiatrist evaluates a possible wart versus an abrasion
• Toenail trimming and callus care
• Dry, scaly skin and ways to manage it safely
• Why people with reduced sensation need to inspect their feet
• How limited mobility can affect everyday foot-care routines
• Living with spina bifida and navigating accessibility challenges
WHY CHECKING YOUR FEET MATTERS
People with spina bifida, peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, or other conditions that reduce sensation may not notice injuries to their feet. Without the usual warning sign of pain, a small wound can become a bigger problem.
Make a habit of checking the tops, bottoms, sides, heels, and spaces between your toes every day. Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, drainage, and skin changes.
If you cannot easily see your feet, use a mirror or ask a trusted caregiver for help. Contact a healthcare professional promptly about a new wound or a spot that isn't healing, particularly if you have reduced sensation.
HOW DO YOU CARE FOR DRY, SCALY FEET?
During Marlene's visit, we discuss ways to soften the dry skin on her feet. Because she has limited sensation and a history of wounds, foot care needs to be gentle and appropriate for her individual needs.
Avoid hot water, aggressive scrubbing, sharp tools, and over-the-counter chemical callus removers when sensation is reduced. Soaking is not appropriate for everyone, especially when wounds are present, so follow your healthcare professional's recommendations.
A LITTLE ABOUT MARLENE
Marlene has been running her Pampered Chef business for almost 12 years. Despite the challenges she faces, she continues to find ways to stay involved, connect with people, and consider new opportunities.
She also shares updates about her family, including a nephew attending the University of Rochester and a niece beginning to explore colleges.
This is a real patient visit, with a reminder that good foot care involves more than trimming toenails. It means paying attention to changes, protecting vulnerable skin, and following up when something doesn't look right.
Thank you, Marlene, for letting us share your visit!
🛎️ SUBSCRIBE to Dr. Nail Nipper for real podiatry appointments, toenail care, callus treatment, and practical foot-health education.
💬 QUESTION OF THE DAY: Do you check your feet every day, or do you rely on someone else to help you?
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This video is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek professional evaluation for persistent or new foot wounds, especially if you have reduced sensation.
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