At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, we understand that medical braces and supports are an essential part of many patients' recovery and long-term care plans. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, recovering from surgery, or managing a chronic condition, a well-fitted brace can significantly improve your mobility and comfort. The Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin Bracing and Medical Equipment Department is on-site to provide you with the appropriate care and education you will need by a dedicated well-qualified team. Here’s what you need to know about your brace fitting process and how to prepare for your appointment to ensure the best possible outcome.
What Happens During a Brace Fitting?
Your brace fitting at the Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin Bracing and Medical Equipment Department is a personalized process designed to meet the specific needs of your injury or condition. During your appointment, you can expect the following steps:
- Insurance Verification: As a courtesy for our patients, our staff will do insurance benefits and authorization checks to give you the best financial estimate for your brace at the time of service. If authorization is required for your brace, our staff will submit the request on your behalf. Claims and payments will then be submitted to your insurance once your brace is dispensed.
- Fitting Appointment: Our staff includes Certified Athletic Trainers and other qualified fitting coordinators with prior experience in Durable Medical Equipment who are prepared to assist with your brace fitting. Based on your physician’s order and diagnosis, symptoms, activities, and goals, your brace fitting coordinator will provide an in-depth brace fitting and education. Your brace fitting coordinator will thoroughly review with you how to donn and doff your brace, wear time, goals and expectations, and how to care for your brace. If you are ordered an ambulatory device, you will also be provided with additional training for safe ambulation. We understand that not every patient is built the same and because of this we provide a variety of sizes and styles of braces for our patients.
- Follow-Up and Adjustments: Sometimes, minor adjustments are needed after wearing the brace or additional education may be needed. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to make sure the brace fit is still optimal as your body changes or your condition improves, or to help answer follow-up questions. We never charge for these extra educational or adjustment fittings.
How to Prepare for Your Brace Fitting Appointment
To get the most out of your brace fitting, there are a few things you can do in advance:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being fitted. For example, if you’re getting a knee brace, wear shorts or pants with wide legs.
- Ask Questions: If you have concerns about how the brace will feel or how it will impact your daily activities, ask your brace fitting coordinator. Your brace fitting coordinator is there to make sure you understand everything about your brace.
- Having Surgery? Bring a family member or friend. If you are having surgery that will require you to have a family member or friend available to help you post-operatively, bring them along to your brace fitting appointment. This will allow you and your support person to be educated on your equipment and how to care for you and your brace post-operatively.
By understanding the process and preparing for your fitting appointment, you can be confident your brace provides the optimal support needed for your recovery. If you have any questions about your upcoming brace fitting or would like more information, don’t hesitate to contact the Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin Bracing and Medical Equipment staff. Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin is here to help you move forward—comfortably and confidently.
OAW Bracing & Medical Equipment Department-Scheduling
(262) 303-5052