A plastic leg brace should fit properly on different individuals. These braces are often made out of a thermoplastic molding material so that they can be easily customized to properly fit. Examples of plastic leg braces usually include knee ankle foot orthosis for stability of the leg, ankle foot orthosis for foot drop and hip knee ankle foot orthosis for leg and hip stability. On the other hand, there are complications that can arise if a plastic leg brace is used which prevents them from functioning properly or even lead to injury.
Incorrect fit
The incorrect fit of a plastic leg brace can eventually lead to instability. Since plastic leg braces are structured to make parts or the whole leg to be stable for walking or standing, an incorrect fit will lead to loss of balance or even cause the individual to fall. Take note that this will also allow the joints to shift or bend further than the normal range, thus potentially leading to increased instability or even joint damage.
Irritation of the skin
If a plastic leg brace does not properly fit, it can lead to skin irritation which over time results to the breakdown of the skin, formation of sores and even infection. When the individual fits the plastic leg brace, it is vital to ensure that there are no bony prominences especially around the knees and ankles that are rubbing against the brace. It is best to test the brace for a few hours before the individual will wear it all day. Make sure to check for any signs of redness or pressure. You can easily manage skin irritation by enrolling in a course on first aid today.
Changes in the leg
If an individual who has a plastic leg brace that have changes in the shape or size of the leg, it is important to note that the brace will no longer perform as it should. Take note that swelling, surgical procedures and weight loss can alter the size and shape of the leg. As a result, the plastic leg brace will no longer properly fit which will eventually lead to skin irritation and instability.
Errors in the laboratory
Take note that even a customized plastic leg brace can provide a bad fit if the laboratory that manufactures the brace was not able to comply with the precise specifications. A common error is creating a base support that is too narrow or overfills the arch support. As a result, it causes instability as well as poor positioning.
Injury while the brace is used
Once the plastic leg brace is recommended and created, the individual should not only be trained in putting it on and taking it off, but also how to use it. Aside from the training on walking with the brace, falling techniques must also be taught as well. An individual who uses a plastic leg brace should also know how to troubleshoot the brace and ways to stay safe while using it.
Incorrect prescription
There are some individuals who are not suitable for a plastic leg brace based on their medical diagnosis. At the present, these include those who have excessive tone in their legs and feet, those who are overweight, those with deformities in their tendons and those above a certain height. In such cases, other types of braces can be considered.