Hip Orthosis & Hip Brace

Hip Orthosis & Hip Brace

PRIMARY CLINICAL & DIAGNOSTIC USES

1. Post-Operative Immobilization Following Hip Surgery

• Primary Use: Provides rigid or semi-rigid immobilization of the hip following total hip arthroplasty, hip fracture fixation, hip resurfacing, and revision hip surgery. The brace restricts flexion, adduction, and internal rotation to protect the surgical repair and prevent dislocation during the critical healing phase.

• How it helps: For the orthopedic surgeon and post-operative care team, the hip orthosis provides essential external stabilization that protects the surgical repair—limiting movements that could dislocate a new hip, displace fracture fragments, or compromise healing of soft tissues. For the patient recovering from hip surgery, the brace provides security and reassurance, allowing them to mobilize safely while protecting their surgical repair during the vulnerable early healing phase.

2. Management of Hip Instability and Recurrent Dislocation

• Primary Use: Used in the conservative management of hip instability, recurrent dislocation, and subluxation in patients with ligamentous laxity, neuromuscular conditions, or following trauma. The brace provides external support that limits excessive range of motion and provides proprioceptive feedback.

• How it helps: For the orthopedic specialist and physiatrist managing patients with hip instability, the hip orthosis provides external stabilization that compensates for inadequate intrinsic stability—limiting movements that could cause dislocation, reducing pain, and allowing the patient to participate in daily activities with reduced risk. For the patient with recurrent hip dislocation, the brace provides confidence and protection during activity.

3. Management of Hip Dysplasia

• Primary Use: Used in the conservative management of developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants and children, providing positioning that maintains the femoral head within the acetabulum to promote normal development. In adults, braces may be used for acetabular dysplasia to provide support and reduce symptoms.

• How it helps: For the pediatric orthopedist managing infants with developmental dysplasia, the hip orthosis provides the positioning needed to guide normal hip development—maintaining the femoral head in the acetabulum while allowing for growth and maturation. For the child with hip dysplasia, early bracing can prevent the need for surgical intervention. For adults with acetabular dysplasia, the brace provides symptomatic relief and support.

4. Post-Surgical Support Following Hip Arthroscopy

• Primary Use: Provides controlled immobilization following hip arthroscopy for labral repair, femoroacetabular impingement surgery, and chondral procedures, protecting the surgical repair while allowing controlled rehabilitation.

• How it helps: For the orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist managing patients after hip arthroscopy, the hip orthosis provides external protection that supports healing of labral repairs, osteoplasties, and chondral procedures—limiting movements that could stress the repair while allowing safe progression through rehabilitation. For the patient recovering from hip arthroscopy, the brace provides security and supports optimal healing.

5. Management of Neuromuscular Conditions Affecting the Hip

• Primary Use: Used in patients with neuromuscular conditions including cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, and muscular dystrophy to provide hip stability, prevent contractures, and maintain functional positioning for sitting and standing.

• How it helps: For the physiatrist and pediatric rehabilitation specialist managing patients with neuromuscular conditions, the hip orthosis provides external support that maintains hip position, prevents progressive deformity, and supports functional activities including sitting, standing, and walking. For the patient with neuromuscular involvement, the brace supports function and prevents complications such as hip dislocation and contractures.

SECONDARY & SUPPORTIVE USES

1. Management of Avascular Necrosis: Provides support for patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head, reducing stress on the affected bone and delaying progression.

2. Post-Traumatic Support Following Hip Injury: Provides external support for patients with hip fractures, acetabular fractures, and soft tissue injuries during the healing process.

3. Conservative Management of Hip Osteoarthritis: Provides symptomatic relief for patients with hip osteoarthritis, reducing pain and supporting function.

4. Pediatric Applications: Specialized pediatric hip orthoses for developmental dysplasia, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and other pediatric hip conditions.

5. Bariatric Applications: Heavy-duty braces available for patients of size requiring hip support.

6. Rehabilitation Support: Used during rehabilitation to provide stability and protection as patients progress through functional activities.