Where do the sidewalls of the nail grow free of natural attachment?

The sidewalls of the nail, also known as the lateral nail folds, grow free of natural attachment on the sides of the nail plate. This area is distinct because it does not have the same adherence to the underlying structures as the nail's base or the tip.

Understanding the anatomy of the nail is crucial; the sidewalls allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the nail during growth. The nail plate itself is anchored by the matrix at the base and does not detach at the sides, making the sides the correct location where the nail grows free of natural attachment.

The tip of the nail is fully attached to the nail bed and is the furthest point from the matrix. The base of the nail is where attachment is most secure due to the nail matrix that produces the nail plate. Finally, the center of the nail bed is not a location where the sidewalls would be free of attachment, as it is the primary area that supports and adheres to the nail plate. Understanding these aspects of nail anatomy can help clarify why the correct answer pertains to the sides of the nail plate.