Overview
Hip orthosis
A hip orthosis (brace) is made to support your hip. It limits movement in your hip joint, which helps prevent dislocation, and reduces pain.
The brace is made of plastic, which is lined with padding. It is made up of 2 sections:
- pelvic section
- thigh section
These 2 sections are connected with a joint, which your orthotist has set to allow a limited range of movement.
How to put on your hip brace
You may find it easier to have someone help you put on your brace.
1. Open the pelvic and thigh fastenings of the brace.
2. Place the brace on a bed, with the opening facing upwards.
3. Lie back into the pelvic section of the brace, positioning your lower back into the brace.
4. Make sure the hip joint of the brace is in line with your hip joint.
5. Pull the sides of the pelvic section around your hips and waist, and fasten the Velcro™ strap securely.
6. Place your leg into the thigh section of the brace, and fasten that Velcro strap securely.
When to wear your hip brace
At first, you should wear your hip brace during the day, to reduce the risk of damage to your hip joint.
As you recover, you may need to wear your brace less. Your orthotist will guide you on how to gradually stop wearing your brace.
Maintaining your hip brace
At some point your hip brace will need some repairs. This may include replacing the straps and padding.
If your brace is damaged, please contact the orthotics service who will arrange the repairs for you.
Do not try to make any changes to the brace yourself.
Looking after your brace
Do
- wear the hip brace as instructed by your orthotist
- check your skin after wearing your brace
- clean the brace with a sponge dipped in warm, soapy water, and towel dry
- check the brace regularly for signs of wear, such as worn-out Velcro straps or foam material, or cracked plastic
- have the brace checked at least every 12 months by your orthotist
Don't
- do not place the brace near sources of heat, or extreme cold
- do not attempt to adjust or modify your brace
- do not cut, file, or damage the brace
When to get help
The close fit of your hip brace can cause mild redness to the skin where pressure is applied. This is normal.
Contact the orthotics service as soon as possible if:
- you notice skin redness that lasts longer than 30 minutes. This can be harder to see on brown or black skin
- you notice any breaks in your skin, such as sores or blisters
- you have any pain, irritation or notice increased rubbing of the skin
Resource number: 4384/VER2
Last reviewed: August 2024
Next review due: August 2027
