Why Custom Braces Are Essential For Your Rehabilitation

Whether you have suffered an injury, are on the mend from surgery, or simply want to improve your mobility and flexibility, physiotherapy is highly beneficial for rehabilitation. However, weakened joints and ligaments need additional support to assist your progress.

As you will read, custom braces are the perfect solution to ensure a safe and effective element of your treatment plan.

What Are Custom Braces and Why Are They Essential for Rehabilitation?

Custom braces are retrofitted support designed to stabilize joints weakened by injury or illness. They typically consist of a carbon composite frame, metal hinges, soft but durable fabric, and velcro straps to hold the device in place. The patient is measured and fitted to ensure the brace bends precisely at the joint without discomfort or being too tight.

Weakened joints and ligaments limit movement, which can create other impairments or risks of bodily injury. When paired with rehabilitation, custom braces align the joint while the patient performs strengthening exercises. It increases the chances of recovery while shortening the time spent in physiotherapy.

How do Custom Braces Help to Improve the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Exercises and Therapies?

The body will heal naturally to the extent that it is able. For example, if you suffer a broken leg without setting it correctly, the bone will heal but not well. The muscles, ligaments, and vessels surrounding the injury will compensate for the limitation and heal around it, leaving you in discomfort and limited ability. 

When you think of bracing in physiotherapy, it assists in holding the joint straight with less pain, allowing the patient’s body to heal correctly. Then, as they build strength, the surrounding area’s connective tissues repair for optimal movement. 

Why is it Important to Have a Custom-Fitted Brace For Every Individual Patient Rather Than Using a One-Size-Fits-All Approach?

Just as a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for shoes, custom braces require precise fitting to help prevent discomfort, too tight a fit, and misalignment. A poorly fitted brace could actually impede your rehabilitation, setting you back months and potentially causing further injury.

While a storebought brace may help for a day or two, custom braces are better for long-term, more efficient results.

How Do You Know If You Need Custom Braces for Your Rehabilitation Needs?

Not everyone in physiotherapy needs to wear a custom brace for rehabilitation. However, there are some telltale signs that it’s time to consider custom bracing in addition to your therapy. 

1. 
   Joint weakness during everyday tasks
2. Lingering aches or pain
3. Sudden changes in strength
4. Inflammation or swelling

When discussing physio options with your therapist, share your symptoms so they can properly assess you and make beneficial recommendations, including whether you need custom braces.

What Are the Benefits of Using Custom Braces Over Other Types of Braces or Supports Available on the Market Today?

As mentioned, storebought braces may work temporarily, but when used over extended periods, they can impede long-term healing for short-term relief. They may even cause the body to heal incorrectly, leading to other painful problems.

The benefits of custom braces include the following:

• 
  Reliable support
• Improved mobility and strength
• Comfortable fit
• Quality materials that last

Get Relief With Professionally Designed Custom Braces

Healing from surgery or an injury takes time; however, who wants to spend more time in physiotherapy than necessary? Under the excellent care of Delta Physiotherapy & Rehab in Mississauga, ON., you can focus on your healing with the most effective, efficient, and advanced rehabilitation methods available. 

Reduce your pain and improve your quality of life with custom braces by Delta. Schedule your consultation online or call 905-822-9898 today!