Vac File vs Dremmel

footqueen · Apr 30, 2014

I am into my 3rd year of foot care self-employment and I have only used the basic cordless dremel (2 speeds). I have a few podiatry bits and 2 battery packs (so one is always fully charged). I have never had a problem with this set-up. No complaints from clients except the occasional person who absolutely cannot stand the vibration sensation. I feel that the dremel works really well for most thick nails/calluses. The cost sure can't be beat! My main complaint is that I would love something that would be dustless. However, 90% of my time is spent "on the road" b/t home visits and various facilities so the portability of the dremel is very important.

Would love to hear what others are using!

barefootnurse · Apr 30, 2014

Just an FYI... dremels were banned for use on feet in all VA podiatry clinics last year. They are made for craft projects not feet and finally the word seems to be getting out. I used one for 7 years before finding out that there are files made just for feet. I use a small rotary file called the THUMB, but there are others out there. They have higher speeds, less vibration and are what you need to look into. The vac file I am looking into now is made my ALGEOS and is called the NOVA 500. I have used another one that you can only get in Canada and the customer service is poor, so am looking at a file I can get here in the states. Getting a proper file will change your entire life!! If you google THE ROLE OF THE CERTIFIED FOOT CARE NURSE IN LOWER EXTREMITY AMPUTATION PREVENTION, this article explains in depth the reasons for tossing the dremel!

footqueen · Apr 30, 2014

Thx for the info. Dremels aren't banned here, still found in many pod and ortho clinics. However, I would prefer something dustless and with less vibration. I'll check out the THUMB.

I have searched many sites and haven't found a good cordless (cannot rely on an outlet being available), portable (small), dustless unit. Also one that doesn't completely break the bank, lol!

Any inventors out there???

NC29mom, ASN, LPN, RN · May 2, 2014

Thx for the info. Dremels aren't banned here, still found in many pod and ortho clinics. However, I would prefer something dustless and with less vibration. I'll check out the THUMB.
I have searched many sites and haven't found a good cordless (cannot rely on an outlet being available), portable (small), dustless unit. Also one that doesn't completely break the bank, lol!
Any inventors out there???

Check out medicool drills. It was recommended to me, and I love it. Have two because they are very inexpensive. Portable, lightweight, battery powered (or can plug in) and lots of drill bits and education offered by medicool. they are just for nail care. good luck!

barefootnurse · May 3, 2014

I disagree with the medicool drill

I have many friends who bought them who all had problems with them. I had to send mine back twice.

I would shop around and really carefully investigate each tool before you purchase a drill.

barefootnurse · May 3, 2014

One drill company in England did try to make a portable drill that had a vacuum. But it just did not work.

the.

Essentially with drills, you get what you pay for. Having a good drill will allow you to work faster and more comfortably and provide a better service.

I can easily see four people an hour when I'm doing clinic's . I use the vac drill for clinics and the portable drill when I am doing housecalls. At $65 each, the drill pays for itself!! I am now getting $85-$125 for a home visit, depending on complexity and location.

Foot care nursing is not a get rich quick scheme. You have to be very skilled and experienced to charge those kinds of prices. And you must be efficient. It is attainable with hard work and the proper equipment. Dremel is outdated and is not best practice. Scalpels are unnecessary. Courses that teach these methods should be questioned.

Elisa51 · May 14, 2014

Use a Helius 40. Am having a bit of difficulty with posting comments. Information is on Canadian Foot Care nurses line

barefootnurse · May 21, 2014

I discovered the Helius two years before it ever came to North America. I bought the first one that was sold to the United States. I know the owner of the company and met him in person last year. It is by far the best real I've ever used. But it is really difficult to get maintenance from Canada. I am now going to try the nova 500. But good for you, you've got the best drill that I know of.

I use about 100 different burs, there is not a nail or a callous that I can't take care of with that machine. It is worth it's weight in gold. Anybody who says they can't afford this kind of machine really needs to think again. It pays for itself in a short amount of time. It is just fabulous. Nurses need to put their Dremel's back in the garage where they belong!

Elisa51 · May 21, 2014

I hope that I have better luck with service as I am in Canada. I know that I have one of these at the hospital I work at as well and I needed a HEPA filter and it came within the week. Haven't had any issues to this time with it or with mine here at home, but thanks for the heads up! What company makes the Nova 500?

barefootnurse · May 21, 2014

There is a company here called ALGEO US. It has only been around for a few years, but the "Mother" company is in England and is over 100 years. Algeos is sponsoring a 3 day course on drills , instruments and supplies as well as a works hoping on making aromatic healing sprays and salves. It is in Sept in Calif. Can't wait !!

Elisa51 · May 21, 2014

Hmmmm! I was looking for somewhere to go in September! Perhaps could you send me some information on this session?