Supports and orthoses for joints and the back
Supports and orthoses for the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, knee, ankle, and back are medical aids. You can obtain these from a medical supply store with a doctor's prescription. There, a specialist will show you how to properly apply your medical device. You can also purchase supports and orthotics there at your own expense.
How do I properly apply my bandage or orthosis?
The team at the medical supply store will be happy to help you with your first application of your bandage or orthosis and explain what matters, such as the correct fit. For further use, you can refer to the instructions for use in the user manual at any time.
How do I wear a support or orthosis – on the skin or over clothing?
Supports are typically worn directly on the skin, as this allows them to fit optimally and exert their stabilizing, compressive effect. Some bands have a massage effect. Important: When worn on the skin, bands should be cleaned regularly.
For orthoses, especially those with metal elements like knee orthoses, wearing them over clothing is often the better choice to avoid pressure points or skin irritation.
Some products contain medical compression and are intended to be worn directly on the skin, while others are intended to be used with a sock for hygienic reasons. This is noted in the instructions for use.
After application: How do I know if my support is properly fitted?
It is important that the support is the right size. It must fit tightly, but not cut into the skin – too much pressure can cause tingling or numbness and affect the nerves or lymphatic vessels. If the support is too loose, it cannot fulfill its function of stabilizing, relieving, and compressing. Therefore, always ensure a secure and comfortable fit when putting it on.
My support doesn't fit properly – what can I do?
If the support feels uncomfortable, please contact your medical supply store. The professional staff can assess whether the size was not chosen optimally or if the device does not fit correctly. This allows you to quickly check whether an adjustment or replacement is necessary.
What to do if the support or orthosis is rubbing, slipping, or uncomfortably tight?
If your support or orthosis is too tight, rubs, or slips, you should visit the medical supply store where you purchased the product. The professional staff can look for the reason there. Sometimes, a small adjustment in the fitting or setting is enough to improve the comfort of the wearer. Especially with knee orthoses and back orthoses like Spinomed, you should have the fit checked regularly at a specialist retailer.
Supports and orthotics are usually available in fixed sizes that allow for some leeway, while other models offer flexible adjustment options such as velcro fasteners or individually adjustable straps. Thus, there is the right size and fit for almost everyone.
Can I wear a support on both sides or switch sides?
Many supports are reversible, meaning they can be worn on both the left and right sides. However, there are also supports and orthoses that are anatomically designed for the left or right, for example, certain ankle or wrist bandages. If in doubt, check the instructions for use or ask at your pharmacy.
Please always apply your support or orthosis correctly: an optimal fit is crucial for the support to achieve its full effect – use the instructional videos to get the most out of your medical product.
