Does an ingrown or strongly curved toenail keep bothering you? Then a nail brace treats not only the pain but also the cause: the growth direction of the nail. At my practice in Blaricum I fit nail braces that gradually and painlessly make the nail grow flat again.
In short
- A nail brace corrects the curvature of the nail and takes the pressure off the painful nail fold.
- Fitting is painless and often brings immediate relief.
- The brace is small, discreet and stays in place during showering, sports and daily activities.
- Ideal for recurring ingrown nails or a strongly curved nail shape.
What is a nail brace?
A nail brace (orthonyxia) is a thin, springy splint that I attach to the nail. Through gentle, constant force, the brace slowly lifts the curled side edges of the nail so it grows flatter and no longer presses into the skin.
It is a safe, non-surgical method that steers the natural growth — no procedure, no anaesthesia.
Who is a nail brace suitable for?
A brace is especially useful for a recurring ingrown toenail, a strongly curved or rolling nail (the so-called pincer nail), or when you want to avoid surgery. It is also often a good, gentle solution with diabetes.
Is the toe currently strongly inflamed? Then I first treat the inflammation and fit the brace once the toe is calmer.
How is the brace fitted?
I clean the nail and measure the right size. Then I apply and secure the brace — this takes only a few minutes and is painless. You can walk normally and put your shoes on straight away.
During follow-up appointments I check the tension and adjust the brace if needed, until the nail grows in the right direction.
How long do you wear the brace?
That varies per person and depends on how fast your nail grows. Usually it is several months, with a check-up every few weeks. Because a toenail grows slowly, lasting correction takes patience — but you often feel the relief straight away.