Hip Orthoses Custom and Custom Fit

Hip orthoses (HOs) are beneficial for treatment of many medical conditions and injuries.

These conditions can be (but are not limited to):

Hip Fracture
Hip Dislocation
Post-operative
Osteoarthritis
Developmental/Congenital Dysplasia of the Hip
Coxa Valgum/varum

Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Hip	The pelvis and femur are the bones of the hip joint. There are many muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves in hip. The hip joint: Acetabulum (pelvis) Head of the femur
Goals of Hip Orthoses Treatment	Provide hip and pelvic stability in stance, sitting, and laying down Provide knee stability, prevent knee hyperextension Control biomechanical alignment of the hip, pelvis, and knee in locomotion Aid in adaption to surfaces Redistribute pressures on the hip and pelvis Resist external forces on the hip and pelvis Limit excessive movements in the hip and pelvis Protect the hip and pelvis Provide shock absorption Produce a more energy efficient gait pattern
Design of Hip Orthoses	A Certified Orthotist will assess the hip and take a 3-D cast/mould of the hip and pelvis if needed. This can be performed with the patient in a prone position or in a seated position. The Certified Orthotist will ensure the hip is in a corrected position. There are a variety of hip brace designs. The Certified Orthotist will determine which design is best for treatment based on individual's needs and goals. Hip braces will have metal joints. All hip braces have straps to help ensure correct application of the orthosis. Types of Hip Orthoses: Hip abduction/adduction ROM Sacroiliac (SI) belt Hernia belt/truss
Hip Orthoses Application	Hip orthoses work best when applied directly against the skin. There are specific donning (application) instructions that the Certified Orthotist will explain to the patient. The Orthotist will also provide a wear schedule accompanied by cleaning and care recommendations.
Living with Hip Orthoses (follow up)	The correction provided by the hip orthosis may take some time to get used to. The hip orthosis should not be painful; however, it is not uncommon to feel some initial discomfort. The break-in period should not last more than two weeks. If you experience rubbing or blisters, please book an appointment with your Certified Orthotist for immediate attention. If you are experiencing pain after two weeks please book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist. It is always recommend to book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist if you experience any changes in condition (pain, change in size, growth). The Certified Orthotist can determine what changes need to be made or make recommendations for alternative treatment. Custom hip orthoses can often be modified or refurbished. The Certified Orthotist can reassess to determine the course of treatment with you.
Funding for Hip Orthoses	Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) does provide funding for custom hip orthoses for Alberta Residents with valid Alberta Healthcare. AADL will pay 100% for the cost for Alberta Residents over the age of 65. AADL will pay 75% of the cost for Alberta Residents under the age of 65. A prescription from a physician is required. There is coverage for persons with low income. WCB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician. NIHB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician. Private insurance may pay for a portion of the cost of your hip orthosis. It is important to consult your insurance company to determine the coverage that they provide. Many insurance companies require a physician’s prescription for hip orthoses benefits. Some insurance companies may request a biomechanical analysis from the Certified Orthotist. There may be an added cost for the Certified Orthotist to provide this report.