Understanding the Adjustable Hinged ROM Brace

Knee Bracing Following Knee Injury

Knee injuries commonly occur during sports, daily activities, or due to the natural wear and tear of life. When it comes to supporting the knee during recovery, an adjustable hinged knee brace (also known as a ROM brace) can be a game-changer. As it offers controlled support that can be adjusted as needed.

What is a ROM brace

The range of motion knee brace is a specialised brace designed to provide substantial knee support. While restricting motion to the desired range. This type of brace features metal inserts on both sides to help stabilise the knee. As well as hinges that allow you to ‘open’ and ‘lock’ range of motion to your specified amount of flexion and extension. The hinge mechanism ensures that the knee remains stable without completely restricting movement.

What can I use the ROM Brace for?

The adjustable hinged knee brace is used to address a variety of knee injuries, ranging in severity. The duration of its use should be tailored to the specific injury and rehabilitation goals. Due to the high level of support that this brace provides, in cases of instability, ligament tears or surgical management it is only recommended to be worn for short periods of time. Below are some examples of injuries that this brace is commonly used for.

• Acute osteoarthritic flares, in advanced cases of osteoarthritis
• Recent meniscal tears
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
• Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears
• Medial cruciate ligament (MCL) tears
• Lateral cruciate ligament (LCL) tears
• Patella fractures
• Tibial Tuberosity fractures
• Recovery after knee surgery – this may be ligament, meniscus, or tendon repair surgery.

How do I use the ROM brace?

The brace should be worn according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. As the duration of use varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. After surgery, the length of time required to wear the brace depends on the specific procedure and your recovery progress. Typically ranging from 4 to 12 weeks, and sometimes longer. In some cases, after surgery your doctor or physiotherapist may advise you to keep the brace on all the time, even in bed. However, in cases such as osteoarthritis or for less severe ligament injuries you may be able to take the brace of when going to sleep.

Benefits of the adjustable hinged knee brace fitting

• Improved Stability: The hinged design and metal inserts provide enhanced lateral and medial support. Ensuring that the knee remains stable even during activity.
• Controlled Range of Motion: The primary feature of this brace is the ability to choose the limitations of the knee’s range of motion. This is essential for preventing hyperextension. Or excessive flexion during rehabilitation, ensuring the knee heals in a controlled and safe manner.
• Customisation: Adjustable hinged knee braces allow for easy customisation of the straps and size of the brace, as well as the range of motion.
• Pain Relief: By stabilising the knee and helping to take pressure off the joint. This brace can reduce pain and inflammation associated with various knee injuries.
• Protection During Physical Activity: The brace provides support during walking and other physical activity.

Range of motion knee brace fitting approach

So, how do I put the brace on?

1. Lie the brace flat out under your injured leg on a bed, with the longer straps under your thigh and shorter straps under your lower leg. You can extend or shorten these straps by adjusting them at the back. The brace can go under or over your clothing.
2. The hinge part of the brace should be positioned over the joint lines of the knee – you can palpate the joint lines, on the inner and outer aspect of the knee joint.
3. Fasten the straps around your leg – begin by fastening the strap closest to the lower aspect of the knee. Followed by the strap right above the knee. After this, fasten the lowest strap on the brace, then the highest.
4. The brace should be fitted firmly and securely enough that it does not slip down your leg when you stand. But it should not cause you any discomfort.

Precautions when wearing the brace

When wearing the ROM brace, keep an eye out for any new pain in your calf or thigh. And monitor for any increasing swelling, redness, or warmth of the lower leg. If you notice any of these symptoms, or have any concerns, be sure to consult your doctor or physiotherapist promptly.