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What is the difference between a Metal and a Composite joint?
 
We do not make braces with the metal on them, because we have found that they are heavy and do not work well with the dogs that we have tried to put them on. Metal joints are non-energy storing joints. They swing freely and the dog has to do twice the work on their bad leg. In the last several years, they have been replaced with the composite rubber joints (Tamarack Joints), which actually are energy storing and returning joints. They work and move with the dog's movement.
Who makes these braces?
The Braces are made by Martin W. Kaufmann, Adaptive Technologist, O&P . Read his bio.
Will an orthotic device help my pet?
Yes, the use of an orthotic (device to support the skeletal/muscular structure) will help to provide stability and control to joints that are no-longer able to remain in place due to soft tissue damage.
Is the use of Orthotics and prosthetics new?
The use of Orthotics and prosthetics for humans goes back centuries. The profession has really made some remarkable gains in the last 25 years and subsequently so has the animal profession. Generally speaking, the use of Orthotics and prosthetics in animals has been carried out as favors, or because someone like myself was approached by a pet owner looking for options other than surgery or putting the pet down. I have decided to focus not only on my human practice, but also to develop standards of care for the animal practice. This has been going on for the past 3 years through actual patients, research, testing, and design engineering. We have come along way in a short time.
Will the device hurt my pet?
The device will not hurt your pet when used as instructed. An example would be this. You would not wear a brand new pair of hiking boots and walk for 15 miles the first day. You would cause major blisters and sores on your feet in no time flat. You would first break your boots in over a few days, maybe a few weeks. This example applies to the length of time you have the device on your pet starting the first day. OrthoPets will supply a "WEAR SCHEDULE" to help ease your pet into the new device. This gives you a chance to evaluate how your pet is doing with the new device. This also gives you a chance to visually inspect your pet’s limb for any signs of trouble, such as a sore spot before it becomes a problem. When wore properly after following your prescribed WEAR SCHEDULE and any minor adjustments, your pet will be ready to go.....jump....run.....swim.....hold down the couch....or what every your pet does best!!!
How long does it take to make a device?
The length of time to fabricate your pets custom made devices will vary depending on the style, material, and number of anatomical joints the brace will cross. Generally, from the time I receive either measurements, or the mold taken from one of our casting kits, the process will take 5-10 business days. Sometimes faster, some times the device will take longer to fabricate. We will evaluate your project promptly and give you an estimated delivery date so you can stay abreast of the fabrication time and prepare to receive your pet’s new device. You may need to schedule a visit with your VET or your ANIMAL REHAB THERAPIST.
How long will the device last?
The life-expectancy for your pet’s device is entirely dependent on the material it is made of. Generally speaking: Neoprene wrap supports will last 12-36 months.Plastic and Carbon Fiber devices will never change shape.The only issue is that over time your pet's body shape may change such that the device no-longer fits properly.
Is it water-proof?
Many of the devices are water-proof. A strong therapy routine in water can drastically improve your pets overall health. There are some Carbon Graphite devices are NOT submersible.
How much does a device cost?
The cost for our devices depends entirely on:
The Material it is made out of.
If the device is made from a mold of your pets limb or fabricated my measurement.
The number of joints the device must control.
For example, a knee brace to stabilize and ACL tear would cost $575.00 for plastic brace with an articulating joint.
How does the knee brace stay in place? Does it slide down the leg with activity?
The issue of a knee brace slipping down towards the hock is always present. There are several ways to manage that slippage.
1. The very bottom end of the brace is made with a soft collar that rests directly on-top of the hock and helps prevent slippage.
2. The use of a strap that connects to the knee brace and travels over the animals back and loops around the opposite leg provides a great anchor.
The shape of your animal’s hind-leg also has a lot to do with the braces ability to stay in position.
With the right design and some repositioning of the brace after activity, your pet will be able to experience the benefit of the knee brace.
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