According to Dr. Howard Osterman, the team podiatrist for the Washington Wizards basketball team, a handful of his team’s players get pedicures every six weeks during the season.

Players consider it necessary in terms of foot health and reducing their risk of injury, he suggests. “They’re not the least bit embarrassed, and they see it as part of their training program,” Osterman says. “It’s as much medical as it is cosmetic.”

He says foot massage helps improves blood flow and reduce inflammation and pain, while removing areas of hardened skin reduces pressure points. Cutting nails correctly can prevent ingrown toenails.