Nail braces work by physically altering the shape of the nail to relieve pressure and promote healthy growth.
How Nail Braces Correct Nail Issues
Nail braces are small devices, often made of metal or plastic, that are attached to the toenail to address issues like ingrown nails or curved nails. They function by gently lifting and reshaping the nail over time. This process reduces the pressure exerted on the nail bed and the surrounding skin.
The Mechanism of Action
- Elevation and Correction: The primary function of a nail brace is to elevate the edges of the nail. This lift pulls the nail away from the sensitive skin, relieving discomfort and reducing the chance of ingrown toenails.
- Shape Modification: By applying gentle, consistent pressure, the brace guides the nail's growth into a straighter and flatter shape. This reshaping is key to long-term relief and prevention. As the nail grows, it gradually accepts the new shape, strength, and pressure applied by the brace.
- Pressure Reduction: This process decreases the pressure on the surrounding tissues, thereby alleviating pain and inflammation.
- Ongoing Adjustment: As the nail grows, it adapts to the correction provided by the brace, helping to maintain the desired shape.
Benefits of Using Nail Braces
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduces Ingrown Nails | Lifts the nail edges away from the skin, preventing them from growing into the tissue. |
| Corrects Nail Shape | Guides the nail as it grows, straightening curved or deformed nails and reducing the recurrence of ingrown nails. |
| Alleviates Pain & Pressure | By lifting and reshaping the nail, nail braces reduce pressure on sensitive areas, offering pain relief. |
| Promotes Healthy Nail Growth | The gentle correction encourages healthier and more natural nail growth, reducing the likelihood of future nail issues. |
In summary, the brace elevates and corrects the nail shape to decrease pressure on the underlying and adjacent skin. This results in reduced toenail issues. As the nail grows it accepts this new position, shape, strength and pressure.
