Orthopaedic Brace Fitting

Braces are devices that provide external support to joints and muscles. Braces are commonly used following an injury, after surgery, to prevent injury during sport or to support a chronic condition.

gladstone hands on physiotherapy othropaedic brace fitting
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Braces may be used to restrict movement (allow joints to heal at faster rate) or help provide less painful movement. Benefits of bracing include: decrease pain by reducing the load on affected structures and by providing additional support/stability to joints.

It is essential that braces are used correctly, to achieve the desired outcomes. If used incorrectly/ inappropriately braces may promote muscle weakness or may negatively impact the rehabilitation process.

It is important to remember that bracing does not replace a rehabilitation program set out by a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist, but when prescribed correctly, it may aid in rehabilitation by reducing load, and promoting healing.

Our team at Gladstone Hands On Physiotherapy collaborates closely with reputable bracing companies to provide the most appropriate, quality bracing at competitive prices. We stock a variety of braces including DonJoy, Accutex, Vulcan, Ossur, etc. We are also recognized fitters for Ossur and DonJoy braces.

If you are not currently being treated by our physiotherapists or are unsure of which brace would be more suitable for your condition, you will need to be assessed by one of our experienced physiotherapists to ensure we provide the right brace for your condition.

What is an orthopaedic brace?

Orthopaedic braces are therapeutic devices used to help with muscle and joint dysfunction. Orthopaedic braces may be used for support, providing alignment, stabilize or to protect a certain area of the body when healing from injury or surgery.

How do orthopaedic braces work?

Braces are used to support, stabilize the position of a limb or joint aiding/restricting movement. Braces may support muscle weakness or structural instabilities. Braces provide additional external support when required.

What kind of braces do you get?

Most areas of the body can be supported by a brace or support. The most common braces include the following:

  • Knee brace
  • Back brace
  • Neck brace
  • Posture brace
  • Wrist brace
  • Thumb brace
  • Ankle brace
  • Shoulder brace

Is it OK to wear a knee brace all day?

A brace can be worn all day if prescribed so by your physiotherapist or orthopaedic specialist. Incorrect use of a brace to worsen pain symptoms or weaken the joints and muscles.

Are braces orthotics?

Braces are considered a form of orthotics, commonly considered as an over-the-counter, ready-made orthotic commonly used to relieve pain, sensitive areas, redistribute weight, etc

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Orthopaedic Brace Fitting


gladstone hands on physiotherapy othropaedic brace fitting

FAQs


Do I need a doctor’s referral to go to a physiotherapist?

No doctor’s referral is needed as physiotherapists are qualified to assess and diagnose without a doctor’s referral.

If you recently had surgery it will be helpful to bring a note from the surgeon with the exact type of surgery that you had done.

If you have been referred on an EPC/GP management program (through Medicare), on WorkCover or DVA, you will need some documentation from your doctor.

Please call our office for more information.

What do I need to take with me?

Please bring any scans, X-rays or other medical history that you deem important. Also bring along any letters or paperwork provided by your GP or specialist. Please bring your private health fund card, DVA card or Medicare card if you have been referred on a GP management plan.

What should I wear?

Generally it is wise to wear loose fitting clothes that you will be able to move in as you may be required to do some exercises during the session.

What should I do after my appointment?

You should drink 1-2 liters of water after your appointment if possible.

Due to the fact that our physiotherapy and exercise physiology treatments promotes waste product secretion and clearance, water will help in removing the waste products from the area and reduce the risk of feeling stiff post treatment.

You should also try not to do heavy work post physiotherapy treatment as there is an element of pain relief that accompanies treatment and there is therefor a potential risk of injury.

The Doctor referred me on a GP management plan with visits through Medicare. How does that work?

Your GP would have given you a form or would have sent it through to our office. You will be eligible for a predetermined amount of visits that is determined by your GP. Medicare offers a rebate for physiotherapy sessions but a gap fee still applies for every appointment. Please call our office if you are unsure of the current gap fee. Please also bring your Medicare Card and a bank card of the bank account registered with Medicare to process your rebate. Exercise Physiology sessions currently does not attract a gap fee and is fully funded by Medicare.

Can I use my private health fund card to get an on-the-spot rebate?

Yes, but rebates are dependent on what type of cover you are on.

How much will my private health fund pay and how much will the gap fee be?

This will depend on your fund and your type of cover. Please contact your fund to find out.

Can I pay using EFTPOS?

Yes.

How do I contact Gladstone Hands On Physiotherapy?

You can call us on (07) 4978 5581, email us at [email protected], or send us a message on our contact page.

Our business hours are:

Monday08:00 – 17:00
Tuesday08:00 – 17:00
Wednesday08:00 – 17:00
Thursday08:00 – 17:00
Friday08:00 – 15:30
How do I get to Gladstone Hands On Physiotherapy?