Ossur Unloader Hip Brace

What to buy with Hip Brace for Osteoarthritis

• Medline Accu-Therm Reusable Hot and Cold Gel Pack
• Vive Honeycomb Gel Seat Cushion
• Core Tri-Core Cervical Support Pillow

How to Apply Ossur Hip Unloader Brace?

Note: At initial evaluation, fold belt arms and straps instead of cutting. When the appropriate length has been determined, cut as needed to obtain the final fit.

Rotation Control Strap Placement (Figure 2) 

• Before donning the Unloader Hip, fasten Rotation Control Strap on the affected side by threading the Upper Alligator Clip through a slit in the belt arm, and attaching it to the button hook.
• SmartDosing Dial should be at the "0" mark.
• Temporarily fasten the lower strap end at the bottom of the trousers, so that it doesn‘t tear at the Lycra during fitting.
• Have the user don the brace.

 

Belt Arm Adjustment (Figure 3–4)

• Detach Front Closures from Belt Arms.
• Fold/Cut Belt Arms vertically, so that they are aligned with mid-line.
• Re-attach Front Closures.
• Close Belt Arms so that they overlap tightly but comfortably around the waist.

 

Rotation Control Strap Adjustment (Figure 5–7) 

• Detach Upper Alligator Clip. Fold/Cut the strap so that the SmartDosing edge is positioned below the Belt Arm line (approximately 2 cm/0.79“).
• Detach the Lower Alligator Clip, and fold/cut the strap to obtain ideal tension. It should feel tight, but not uncomfortable when wrapped around the thigh and attached to the outer side of the leg.
• With the leg rotated slightly outwards, set the SmartDosing dial at the “5” mark. When rotating the leg towards the front and lifting it slightly, the patient should experience agreeable tension in the leg.
• Repeat the Lower Alligator Clip adjustment if necessary. The objective is to obtain adequate tension with SmartDosing at the “5” mark.

 

Thigh Strap (Figure 8–9)

• Position the Thigh Strap so that its dot is positioned over the dot on the Rotation Control Strap.
• Thread the slim end through the opening, and fasten securely.

 

Pulley System Adjustment (Figure 10–12)

• Verify the length of Pulley System strings by pulling at handles, and attaching to Belt Arms.
• If the handles overlap, shorten strings by using the spooling system located inside the handles.
• Fasten the Pulley System so that it sits tightly and comfortably on the Belt Arms.

 

Trochanter Pad (optional) (Figure 13)

Apply pad when peak pressure reduction on greater trochanter is needed, and/or to increase sealing effect on labrum.

• Position the Trochanter Pad on the greater trochanter of the affected hip by attaching it under the Belt Arm.

 

Final check

Verify that the brace is sitting correctly on the body, with all parts accurately positioned. Ask the patient to walk around, sit down, and stand up, to ensure proper fit. Adjust as necessary, then proceed to cut straps and belt arms to the ideal length.

Ossur Hip Unloader Brace User Manual

How to maintain Hip Unloader Brace?

• Detach Upper Alligator Clip. Fold/Cut the strap so that the SmartDosing edge is positioned below the Belt Arm line (approximately 2 cm/0.79“).
• Detach the Lower Alligator Clip, and fold/cut the strap to obtain ideal tension. It should feel tight, but not uncomfortable when wrapped around the thigh and attached at the outer side of the leg.
• With the leg rotated slightly outwards, set the Smart Dosing dial at the “5” mark. When rotating the leg towards the front and lifting it slightly, the patient should experience agreeable tension in the leg.
• Repeat the Lower Alligator Clip adjustment if necessary. The objective is to obtain adequate tension with SmartDosing at the “5” mark. Thigh Strap (Figure 8–9)
• Position the Thigh Strap so that its dot is positioned over the dot on the Rotation Control Strap. Thread the slim end through the opening, and fasten securely.

Safety Instructions

• If you have issues like poor blood flow, nerve problems, or sensitive skin, ask your doctor before using.
• If your skin turns red, use the brace less. Increase slowly as your skin gets used to it.
• Only use this device for yourself.

Warnings:

• If you notice a change or loss of function, stop using the device and see a healthcare professional.
• If the device looks damaged or isn't working right, stop using it and contact a healthcare professional.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can benefit from the Ossur Hip Unloader Brace?

The brace is designed for individuals with hip conditions such as osteoarthritis, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), labrum tears, and other conditions that may benefit from the repositioning of the hip and compression around the greater trochanters.

2. How do I adjust the brace for a personalized fit?

The SmartDosing dial allows you to customize the external rotation force, and the Rotation Control Strap can be adjusted to your specific needs, ensuring a tailored level of support and comfort.

3. Is the Ossur Unloader Hip Brace easy to put on and take off?

Yes, it is designed for easy application and removal with its pocket wrap closure system and zipper, making it user-friendly for daily use.

4. What kind of pain relief does the brace provide?

The brace's pulley system is designed to reduce pain and enhance hip stability by addressing biomechanical issues often associated with hip conditions, which can improve comfort and mobility.

5. Can I wear the brace for extended periods of time?

Yes, the brace is made from premium-quality Lycra material, offering breathability and a snug fit for long-term comfort during various activities. However, it's essential to follow healthcare professional guidance for extended use.

Size Chart

Unloader Hip Support Review