Nail Bracing

Nail bracing is a new, very modern technique originally developed in Germany. Aligned Feet Podiatry is one of the few Clinics in Brisbane offering this successful treatment option which aims to prevent the regrowth of ingrown toenails or decrease the formation of the hard, painful areas of skin that can form under the sides of especially the big toe nails.

 

The nail brace acts to elevate the nail plate and unload the pressure on the underlying skin along the sides of the nail. This allows the underlying skin to regain its strength and accept the pressure of the nail once more. It also elevates the nail on the toe and in some cases reduces the involution or inward curving of the toenail.

Depending on the history and condition of the nail, Nail Bracing can be a very effective conservative treatment option, instead of Nail surgery. 

 


 

 

Method of Application

  1.      When the nail and surrounding skin is free of the penetrating nail spike,
   infection and inflammation, the sides of the nail are cleaned and packed in
   preparation for the nail brace.

   2.      Immediately the brace is painlessly applied, and firmly fixed to the nail during a
   45 minute consult.

   3.      The brace is checked one week later and then left on until it grows out with the
    nail, at which point the sides of the nail should have grown over the skin at the
    top of the toe.

  4.       From this point onwards, the nail must be left as long as possible, to keep the
   sides from redigging into the skin. The nail must be cut straight across, as
   shown by your Podiatrist.

 

Life with the Nail Brace on

  1.      You can continue with all your normal daily activities, but avoid kicking anything  
   with the toe i.e. do not kick balls with that foot.

  2.      Initially, you may feel a little tension from the nail brace which will not be painful.
  This will be more noticeable when wearing tight socks or slip on shoes with an
  enclosed front. If you feel uncomfortable changing to lace up shoes that will be
  strapped on to your feet will prevent this discomfort.

  3.      Usually one nail brace will be sufficient to achieve the mentioned results but it
  should be noted that more than one brace may be required as the nail can
  become impacted again if it is traumatized by an accident or ill fitting shoes.

Nail b