Orthopaedic Surgery - Lower Limb Hinged Knee Brace Care

Type of brace:

You are wearing a lower limb hinged knee brace that looks like this:

Wearing of the brace

All the time: YES/NO
Day time only: YES/NO
Night time only: YES/NO
When walking only: YES/NO

DO NOT remove the brace unless you have been instructed to do so by either by your consultant or Orthopaedic Therapist.

Mobility

You must walk using:
Wheeled Zimmer frame: YES/NO
Two elbow crutches: YES/NO
One elbow crutch: YES/NO
Walking stick: YES/NO
No walking aid required: YES/NO

Other:.......................................................................................

You must be

Full weight bearing: YES/NO
Partial weight bearing: YES/NO
Non-weight bearing: YES/NO

DO NOT remove the brace unless advised by your Orthopaedic Therapist

Care of your brace

• DO NOT alter the splint in any way - if it’s rubbing/loose or uncomfortable contact the Orthotics Department
• The brace can be wiped with lukewarm, soapy water or a damp cloth flannel and then dried thoroughly
• The brace must be kept dry when bathing/showering. A plaster protector may be purchased for this reason. If you have any difficulties in this area, please ask your Orthotics Department

Hinged knee brace

• The brace will need to be removed (usually once per week) so that your leg can be cleaned and checked for any problems. If you are permitted to remove the brace yourself, your Orthopaedic Therapist will show how to do so
• When removing your brace your leg should always be supported. i.e. with your knee straight and your whole leg supported on your bed
• Ensure all the straps are secure to ensure a snug fit

Ensure you support your leg on a bed before removing or fitting your brace
 
Push down to release the straps.

Unclip the straps like this:

Before removing or fitting the brace support your leg on a bed and slide the brace off/on.

When fitting the brace make sure the centre of the hinges are in line with the centre of your kneecap and fasten all of the straps.

When fitted the brace should look like this:

DO

• Exercise the joints above and below the fracture as instructed
• If your leg swells, rest for periods with leg elevated; loosen straps slightly. Ensure that the straps are tightened again before moving

DON’T

• Remove the brace unless advised by your Orthopaedic Therapist
• Alter the brace

Future care

If you have any of the following problems with your brace, contact the Orthotic Department (see telephone number on next page):

1. Redness, irritation, or skin breakdown.
2. Excessive swelling.
3. Discolouration and/or tingling of the feet or toes.
4. If the swelling decreases and the brace does not fit snugly.
5. Your foot starts to drop, or you cannot move your foot.
6. If the hinges lock and you cannot bend your knee.

NB: If any of these problems occur out of office hours, please contact your GP or local A & E department.

Smoking and passive smoking affects fracture healing. Please ask if you require further advice.

Contact

Orthotic Department - 0161 206 4912
8am-4pm Monday to Friday