A survey of lower leg braces worn by the over-60s

Abstract

Fifty-five older subjects, who had been prescribed a lower leg brace (below knee orthosis - BKO) were interviewed to assess patient satisfaction and compliance. Over 80% of subjects were still using their brace: the majority (81 %) found them comfortable and a similar proportion said they were beneficial to their walking. Nearly half of the subjects (45%) were unable to put on their brace independently. Many of these individuals were very disabled, usually as a result of a stroke. Inability to apply the orthosis was related to disability, but not to patient age nor to the type of brace. Difficulties encountered by users included discomfort caused by the orthosis, problems with clothing and footwear and difficulties getting the orthosis modified or repaired. Improvements in brace design and service provision would help to minimize these problems.