How to care for an orthosis

If you or a family member you care for wears an orthosis, here are a few tips on how to care for it so it lasts as long as possible.

Proper care isn't primarily about looks — it's mainly about hygiene, i.e. preventing skin conditions such as rashes and chafing, where the skin under the orthosis becomes red due to heat and moisture, and friction causes an inflamed area. Treatment involves keeping the area dry, airing it out, and using zinc ointment (e.g. Sudocrem) if the doctor or physiotherapist allows the orthosis to be removed for short periods. If removing the orthosis isn't possible and you're dealing with a rash or chafing, apply cream to the affected area and pad the orthosis with a thin sterile cotton gauze to reduce irritation. If the area is weeping, use an antifungal treatment, and see a doctor if there's no improvement within 3–4 days.

Don't forget that sweat, skin oils and shed skin cells soak into the orthosis over the course of the day. This contributes to the breakdown of the orthosis material and shortens its lifespan.

Washing

You can gently hand-wash the orthosis using a mild soap or a detergent designed for technical fabrics. Never wash it in a washing machine.

If the orthosis has removable stiffeners, take them out before washing. Also fasten all hook-and-loop straps so they don't rub against and damage other parts of the orthosis.

Drying

Never put an orthosis in a tumble dryer or directly on a radiator — let it air-dry naturally. High heat can deform plastics and damage the elasticity of the fibres, causing the orthosis to stretch or shrink and stop working properly.

It's best to dry the orthosis laid flat on a towel, so its own weight doesn't stretch it if hung up.

Regular checks

Check whether the seams are coming apart or whether the hook-and-loop straps still hold.

If the orthosis still smells despite all the care described above, use a special antibacterial spray for textiles or sports equipment.

We believe that with proper care, your orthosis will serve you well and help you return as quickly as possible to the full, active life you were used to before your injury.