Therapeutic pedicure in Coimbra
Nail brace in Coimbra: correcting the nail's curve without surgery
When a toenail keeps growing in, removing the spicule brings relief but does not fix the cause: the shape of the nail. A nail brace works on that shape — a small spring or band fixed to the nail that slowly opens and straightens it.
Foot assessment: €15, deducted if you have the treatment in the same session.
What it is
A very thin device — a composite band or a metal wire — glued or hooked to the nail surface. It sits under light tension and lifts the edges continuously and gently, the way dental braces move teeth.
The nail grows out already in its new shape. No cutting, no anaesthetic; most people feel the pressure ease on the day it is fitted.
Who it makes sense for
- An ingrown toenail that comes back after the spicule is removed.
- A pincer or curled nail with pain when wearing shoes.
- After an inflammatory episode has settled, to prevent the next one.
- Anyone wanting to avoid or postpone nail surgery when there is no urgent indication for it.
How the fitting goes
- Assessment of the nail and surrounding skin: an active infection is treated first.
- Cleaning, removal of any spicule and preparation of the nail surface.
- Fitting and fixing the brace, adjusted to that nail's curve. About 45 minutes.
- Home instructions and booking of the first review.
How long, and how many reviews
The brace follows nail growth, so the total time depends on how fast the nail grows — usually two to six months. Reviews take place along the way, typically every four weeks, to reposition or replace the brace (the “brace maintenance” service).
It needs continuity: a brace left without review loses tension and effect.
Care at home
- You can shower and wet the foot normally; dry well between the toes.
- Do not pull or fiddle with the brace; if it comes off, do not re-glue it — book a review.
- Cut the nail straight across, without rounding the corners, and never under the brace.
- Shoes with room at the front: shoe pressure is what undoes the brace's work most.
Limits, and what is not promised
A brace corrects the curve and reduces the risk of the nail growing in again; it does not guarantee it will never happen, especially if footwear or nail cutting keep pushing the other way. In nails badly deformed by old trauma, or with severe infection or bone changes, it may not be the right treatment — and that is said at the assessment.
Frequently asked questions
- Does fitting hurt?
- No. There is no cutting and no anaesthetic. If the surrounding skin is inflamed it may be tender to touch, in which case the inflammation is treated before the brace is fitted.
- How much does it cost?
- The fitting has the price shown in the services catalogue; reviews (brace maintenance) cost less, depending on the adjustment needed. Current prices are always on the services page.
- Can I do sport and wear closed shoes?
- Yes, with shoes that do not squeeze the front. Avoid knocks to the nail in the first 24 hours.
- Is the brace visible?
- It is thin and discreet and can be covered with polish. On a dark or thick nail it is practically invisible.
- What if the nail is already infected?
- The infection is dealt with first — spicule removal, dressing and, if needed, medical referral. The brace is fitted afterwards, once the skin has settled.
Book the fitting
Pick a time in the schedule. If you are not sure a brace is the right treatment, start with the foot assessment.