FISH PEDICURE CAUSES WOMAN TO LOSE TOENAILS

CNN and Global News have reported a young woman who had her toenails start to separate from her toes due to a fish pedicure, according to a case report in the journal JAMA Dermatology.

The woman, who is in her 20s, noted that after the fish pedicure, most of her toenails on both feet stopped growing and began to fall off, a condition known as onychomaedesis.

Six months later, she went to a dermatologist, who ruled out any other causes of onychomaedesis, such as a family history of nail disorder, medical problems or previous trauma. The dermatologist said it was most likely linked to the fish pedicure.

What is a fish pedicure?
 

A fish pedicure involves soaking your feet in a tub of warm water while little fish known as Garra rufa, nibble away at the dead skin on the surface of your feet. Garra rufa, also known as “doctor fish,” are freshwater fish that have become known for their perceived healing and cleaning power.

Should I get a fish pedicure?

At this time, fish pedicures are not an effective way to treat nail and skin conditions. They do not follow the guidelines of appropriate foot health-care and can lead to complications such as losing your toe nails or infections.

Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotics Clinic.

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