Please note: Your orthosis may look slightly different from the one shown in this article, but its functionality remains unchanged. Each WIMBA product is custom-made and tailored to suit the unique needs and anatomy of your patient.
Caution!
As with any WIMBA product, certain rules apply for fitting and initial wear of the Stifle Brace.
As a rule of thumb, to wear an orthosis, there should be no stitches or wounds on the paw, preferably without skin irritation or shaved fur.
However, some medical conditions might require immediate orthosis application.
In such cases, always:
- Consult with the veterinarian and WIMBA team for guidance.
- Ensure special medical treatment and strict supervision if the paw hasn't fully healed.
- Colloidal patches can be used for wounds, but be aware they may impact the paw's shape and orthosis fit
- For skin irritation or shaved fur, Vet Wrap can be placed directly under the orthosis. Monitor the skin condition frequently to prevent extra rubbing that could worsen irritation or lead to wounds. Additionally, if swelling occurs under the orthosis, it is crucial to promptly remove the orthosis.
Putting the brace on
Step 1 - Prepare the Paw
Ensure it is clean and dry before applying the orthosis.
Step 2 - Positioning the Orthosis
Place the brace over the dog’s limb, ensuring correct orientation.
Step 3 - Fastening the Orthosis
Insert the straps into the clip hole.
Fasten on a standing (or sitting) dog with the orthotic limb on the ground.
Lift the paw and hinge it to ensure tokens are directly on the joint.
Step 4 - Ensuring Even Tightening
If the strap is fastened on both sides, ensure even tightening to avoid point loading.
Step 5 - Correct Fit
The orthosis fits properly when worn correctly, staying in place, not twisting, and avoiding pressure on the animal.
Wear schedule
During the first weeks of use, the wear time should be increased gradually to avoid skin irritation and to make it easier for the dog to get accustomed to the new product. At the beginning, even 5 minutes might be a challenge for the dog, but if introduced correctly, the dog should easily be able to start accepting even long wear times.
The time might vary and should be chosen and adjusted by the leading veterinarian or physiotherapist.
-1.png?width=688&height=478&name=image%20(2)-1.png)
DOs & DON'Ts
|
DO’s |
DON’Ts |
|
✓ Take the orthosis off periodically and stick to the wear schedule. |
❌Don’t leave the orthosis on 24/7. |
|
✓ Remove the orthosis in case of swellings, skin irritations, pressure sores, wounds, etc. |
❌Don’t put the orthosis on wounded skin. |
|
✓ Place a vet wrap under the orthosis for delicate skin, shaved fur, skin irritations, etc. |
❌Don’t put the orthosis directly onto the skin if the fur is unevenly shaved, the paw is irritated, or scratched. |
|
✓ When fitting for the first time, ensure that none of the hard parts put pressure on the animal, it does not twist during use, or fall off. |
|
|
✓ Clean the orthosis after contact with sand, soil, mud, grass, leaves, etc. |
❌Don’t allow the dog to wear dirty orthosis as it can lead to skin irritations or the growth of fungi and bacteria. |
|
✓ Hand-clean the orthosis with lukewarm water and delicate soap. |
❌Don’t use strong chemicals or put the orthosis in the washing machine. |
|
✓ Allow the orthosis to air dry. |
❌Don’t use dryers as they can alter the structural integrity of the orthosis. |
|
❌Don’t modify the structure of the orthosis. |
|
|
✓ Monitor your dog’s behavior and condition while wearing the orthosis - check for behavioral and physical signs of discomfort. |
❌Don’t leave your dog unattended with the orthosis on - there’s a high risk of biting on the orthosis, swallowing small objects, or health hazards. |
|
✓ Scan the QR code on the back and read the instructions. |
|