Durable Medical Equipment - Bracing and It's Use for Pain Management

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) refers to a range of medical devices that are designed to provide support, stability, and mobility to individuals with various medical conditions. These devices can include wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and other equipment designed to help individuals with their activities of daily living.

One type of DME is bracing. Bracing refers to the use of support devices, such as straps, splints, or braces, to provide stability, support, and protection to specific body parts, such as the spine, knees, ankles, and more. The goal of bracing is to alleviate pain, reduce the risk of injury, and improve the overall function of the affected area. Bracing is often used as a conservative treatment option for individuals with conditions such as scoliosis, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, back pain, neck pain, and certain joints.

There are several types of bracing used for different conditions, including:

1. Scoliosis bracing: used to treat scoliosis, a condition characterized by a curvature of the spine. The most common type of scoliosis brace is the Boston brace, which is worn under the clothes and helps to correct the curvature of the spine. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the use of a brace for children with idiopathic scoliosis can reduce the progression of the curve, and may be an alternative to surgery.
2. Knee bracing: used to support and stabilize the knee joint, particularly in cases of knee osteoarthritis or ligament injuries. There are several types of knee braces, including unloader braces, which shift weight away from the affected knee, and functional braces, which provide support during physical activity. A study published in The Journal of Rheumatology found that unloader knee braces can reduce pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
3. Ankle bracing: used to support and stabilize the ankle joint, particularly in cases of ankle sprains or instability. There are several types of ankle braces, including functional braces, which provide support during physical activity, and immobilization braces, which restrict movement to allow for healing.
4. Back bracing: used to support and stabilize the lower back and spine, particularly in cases of back pain, herniated discs, and spinal fractures. There are several types of back braces, including lumbar supports, which provide support to the lower back, and corsets, which provide support to the entire spine. A systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that the use of lumbar supports can reduce pain and improve function in patients with chronic lower back pain.
5. Neck Bracing: used to support and stabilize the cervical spine, particularly in cases of neck pain, herniated discs, and cervical fractures. There are several types of neck braces, including cervical collars, which provide support to the neck and restrict movement to allow for healing, and soft cervical collars, which provide support and are worn for longer periods of time.
6. Wrist bracing: used to support and stabilize the wrist joint, particularly in cases of wrist sprains, strains, fractures or carpal tunnel syndrome. There are several types of wrist braces, including immobilization braces, which restrict movement to allow for healing, and functional braces, which provide support during physical activity. A study published in the Journal of Hand Therapy found that the use of a wrist splint can reduce symptoms and improve function in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, it is important to note that bracing may not be appropriate for all conditions and patients, and it is best to consult with an experienced healthcare provider to determine if bracing is an appropriate treatment option and which brace is appropriate for your condition.

For more information about bracing, please contact Bellevue Pain and Wellness at (425) 998-7884.