Equipment used in orthopedics can be divided into two categories. First are items that are worn. They are used to support and stabilize weak or traumatized body parts and include back braces; cervical collars; wrist, hand and elbow splints; and knee and ankle braces. Second are items meant to assist with activities of daily living and provide support to enable you to complete difficult tasks and overcome your physical challenges. These items are often referred to as durable medical equipment.
Braces
An injured or impaired body part requires stabilization to heal, prevent additional injury and enable you to complete your daily activities. Braces are prescribed by physicians with specialization in orthopedics and are fabricated from a mold taken of your affected body part by an orthotist. (See Reference 1) From this mold the brace is made most often from polypropylene with Velcro closures. How long you wear the brace during the day is determined by your condition or injury, and specific wearing instructions are provided at the time of fitting. Braces today are lightweight, flexible, adjustable for growth and weight gain or loss, and often worn under clothing. They are ordered by the physician according to the technical name. For example, an ankle brace is called an AFO or ankle foot orthosis.
Durable Medical Equipment
You do not wear durable medical equipment, or DME, but rather use it to help in your daily activities. DME includes a vast array of assistive devices. The most common DME items are single or quad canes; crutches; seated, knee or reverse walkers; adaptive strollers; manual wheelchairs; and power wheelchairs. Other forms of DME include specialized spoons, dishes, extended straws, raised commode seats, mechanical lifts, transfer boards and disks, seat and back cushions, headrests, lap trays, pressure-relieving pads, shower chairs and benches, trunk and hip bolsters, and arm troughs.These items are sold through medical supply companies, department stores and pharmacies. While these items are not worn, you want to be measured for walkers, wheelchairs and supportive seating, because use of these items can be improved with proper fit. The medical supplier provides the measurement and fitting service for you. Many of these items are covered by Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. You could obtain payment for these by getting a prescription from your physician and consulting with your medical supplier or pharmacist. (See Reference 2)
Considerations
Check with your physician to determine if he has prescribed braces or durable medical equipment regularly. Ask if he is familiar with medical suppliers and orthotists in your area.
Ask for recommendations from physical and occupational therapists for reputable local suppliers.
Consider how the recommended equipment will fit into your home and vehicle. Ask for a trial before you purchase.
Is the recommended equipment needed for a specific period of time? If so, ask if it can be rented. Note that this does not apply to items to be worn, such as braces, or personal care items, such as commode seat lifts.
Monitor your skin condition for any brace worn. Check for red areas or pressure, and inform your orthotist if these occur, since pressure problems can cause skin ulcers.
Review the owner's manual or any written instructions provided with your orthopedic equipment.
Do not attempt to modify or change your brace or equipment. Changes should be made only by qualified technicians.
Review your insurance policy to see what durable medical equipment is covered. Contact Member Services for questions regarding benefit limits.
