Nail Bracing

WHAT IS TOENAIL BRACING?

Toenail Bracing is a safe and effective treatment option that avoids toenail surgery, requires no anesthetic, requires no recovery period, offers immediate pain reduction, and allows the quick resumption of sporting and daily activities.

Toenail Bracing is a treatment designed to improve the toenail shape and prevent the re-occurrence of painful ingrown or involuted toenails. Similar to the bracing of teeth used in orthodontics, toenail bracing aims to permanently change the position of the nail for better cosmetic appearance and permanent pain relief. Ingrown Toenail Clinics Australia is one of only a small number of clinics in Australia that offer this unique service.

Recommended for:

Ingrown nails
Deformed nails
Involuted/curled nails
Cosmetic corrections
An alternative to toenail surgery

Benefits at a glance:

Fast relief and long term pain reduction
Pain free application of brace
No local anaesthetic required
No interference with everyday life, work or most sports
Suitable for those with peripheral vascular disease or diabetes

ABOUT TOENAIL BRACING

For the right ingrown toenail condition, toenail bracing can be a very effective long-term treatment opti

We use 3 types of bracing systems depending on the condition of the nail and severity of the abnormal nail shape.

Once the appropriate toenail bracing system is selected, it's painlessly applied to the affected nail.

At 4-6 weekly intervals, we will need to adjust the brace or apply a new one.

Once the affected toenail has improved to desired outcomes, the brace will be removed. Occasionally, a retainer brace may be recommended for another 3-6 months to help maintain the improved nail shape.

The entire treatment process usually takes between 6-12 months.

Although we do our very best to select the right toenail condition that would benefit from bracing, in some rare cases, nail bracing may not achieve the desired outcome. Toenail surgery may be suggested should the ingrown toenail condition not fully resolve or return following a treatment period of bracing.

We will discuss all factors that improve the outcome of toenail bracing and help prevent reoccurance once the brace is removed.

Nail bracing is not recommended if you:

Play kicking sports such as soccer or AFL.
Want to wear pointed high heels or tight fitting ballet flats during treatment.
Have a fungal infection that is affecting the strength or integrity of the nail edge.

Nail Bracing FAQ

Does nail bracing work?

Nail bracing for ingrown or over-curved toenails is very effective when applied correctly and for the right nail condition. However, there are some ingrown toenail conditions where nail suregry would be more effective.

How long will I need the nail brace on my toe for?

A continuous bracing period of 6-12 months is required in most cases.

Can I wear shoes as usual with toenail bracing?

Yes. Although, there's an increased chance of the brace coming loose if worn with shoes that are too tight or narrow at the toe box. For example, in pointed stilettoes the bracing may be less effective.

Does nail bracing hurt?

It's painless to apply, but you may experience some discomfort from the tension of the brace after initial application and follow up adjustments. This mild discomfort usually subsides within 24-48 hours.

When can I get back to work or sport?

Immediately. However, bracing is not recommended for those that participate in sports that require kicking or tight fitting boots/shoes.

Can I still paint my toenails?

Yes, you can paint over the brace if desired without affecting the brace.

Why nail bracing instead of ingrown toenail surgery?

Bracing is a more conservative option that is great for kids or anyone who is anxious about toenail surgery. Bracing is also more suitable for those with some medical conditions such as peripheral vascular disease.

Does my private health fund cover toenail bracing costs?

A number of health funds provide rebates for nail bracing - check with your fund if you're covered. We have HICAPS facilities so are able to offer on-the-spot rebates.

Does Medicare cover nail bracing costs?

If you qualify for an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program arranged by your GP, a portion of the associated costs may be covered by Medicare (up to a maximum of $264.75 per year).