From the Research
Nail bracing is a highly effective treatment for ingrown toenails, offering a non-surgical solution with high patient satisfaction and low recurrence rates, as evidenced by a study published in 2015 1. The procedure involves attaching a brace to the nail surface using dental adhesives, which applies gentle tension to flatten the curved nail over time, typically requiring 3-6 months of continuous wear. For implementation, patients should consult a podiatrist who will clean the nail, apply the brace, and schedule follow-up appointments every 4-6 weeks to adjust or replace the brace as the nail grows. Some key points to consider when implementing nail bracing include:
- The brace should be made of a suitable material, such as stainless steel, titanium, or composite materials.
- The podiatrist should clean the nail and surrounding area before applying the brace.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to adjust or replace the brace as the nail grows. Nail bracing works by counteracting the natural curvature of problematic nails, gradually training them to grow in a flatter position while relieving pressure on the surrounding soft tissue. This approach is particularly beneficial because it preserves the natural nail, provides immediate pain relief, allows normal activities including showering, and addresses the underlying cause rather than just treating symptoms. Most patients can expect significant improvement within 2-3 months, though complete correction may take longer depending on individual nail growth patterns. It's also important to note that while biotin supplementation has been studied as a potential treatment for brittle nails, the evidence is limited and inconclusive, with some studies suggesting a positive response 2, 3 while others highlight the lack of standardized dosing and outcome measures 4. However, in the context of nail bracing for ingrown toenails, the focus should be on the mechanical correction of the nail curvature rather than supplementation. A study published in 2022 5 highlights the need for physician awareness of the potential risks and benefits of biotin supplementation, but this is not directly relevant to the use of nail bracing for ingrown toenails.