Somewhere I read that diabetics should NOT get pedicures. The young woman who had done spa pedicures for me for over five years is meticulouly clean and careful. But, I have not been back since I read that statement.
I’ve started worrying a lot about my feet. :-/
I still get manicures and fake nails. I get infections around my nails if I do not have the fake nails. I talked with my doctor and she said as long as they are clean. You may want to bring in your own tools.
The concern is with foot issues. For example, if you get a cut, etc., you are open to infection and may not be aware of it. I think if you are in good control their should not be a concern. Also, there are a lot of unlicensed little nail places around these days. I would definitely worry about their cleanliness.
I have also heard the “bring your own tools” advice. But, if you bring your own tools, you are still putting your feet in a basin that could be dirty. I would use good judgement and go to a reputable place, and take a quick look at your toes each day to be sure everything’s okay.
I think the concern stems from diabetics who have lost nerve sensitivity in the feet and therefore might not notice cuts until they become infected. As long as you are diligent with checking your feet after the pedi, then I think you should be ok. I still get them!
You should ask your doctor/podiatrist. If you are beginning to worry, then you should be going to a podiatrist. I have no problems with my feet, so I do occasionally get a pedicure, but I am only on Metformin. If you can go back, just tell your technician that she should be extra gentle with your feet.
Teresa is meticulous about cleaning the basin. and she is so careful. The tools are sterilized, too. I was just concerned that there was some reason of which I was unaware that pedicures should be avoided. 
Good to hear, Sara… I sure miss having them.
That’s a good plan, Debbie. Thanks. I am on Metaformin also. My doctor dropped me back to 500mg (from 1000mg) per day recently. Woo-hoo!
I had the opposite problem after having acrylic overlays for a couple years: started having blisters around the nails. They itched and peeled like a bad sunburn! Not fun. I tried gel nails for a while, but can’t do them well myself, and no one here does them professionally. The acrylics is so cheap, no one will bother with the gel.
Me too. There are some places I wouldn’t dare try. Thanks for the input!
I had heard that too, as soon as I was diagnosed. I decided that as long as I was not having issues with neuropathy, I would keep having pedicures, at seemingly reputable places, like you all recommend. I am only willing to give up so much! I will keep having peds and wearing cute shoes as long as I can!
That’s a great sign! You should treat yourself to a…PEDICURE!
I’ve spent 20 years as an esthetician and manicurist and will let you in on some pedicure information to help you get a safe treatment.
When you get a pedicure, if the basin has jets, then the whole basin needs to be filled with a disinfectant and run through the pipes for at least 10 minutes AND the drain filter opened up and cleaned. Wiping the surface of the tub is nice, but mostly for show as the minute water is added it is a bacterial soup.
There is no reason to cut the cuticles on toenails. Really. They are taught NOT to do this in school.
Having taught in cosmetolgy schools, students are taught NOT to work on diabetics. Here’s why: risk of injury and liability.
So, how do you get a decent pedicure?
Spend some time to find a reputable manicurist. Mini interview them.
Check their licence. It should be visible and have their picture on it.
Look at the basin; there are some with disposible liners or are a solid (no jets) bowl.
Watch their technique: I have seen pedicurists talking, watching tv or on a cell phone.
Do they have specialty diabetic foot care professional products? European brands that are made for diabetics tell you they at least are prepard for your needs.
Helen