What Ligamentous Conditions May Benefit from a Formfit ROM Brace?
The Formfit ROM is a knee brace manufactured by Össur designed to offer circumferential support around the knee. It can work well to complement the recovery of mild to moderate knee ligament tears (ACL, MCL, LCL, PCL).
The brace is not generally recommended for more severe knee injuries such as grade-three ruptures. When greater damage is present, more control and limited range of motion is necessary. A post-op range-of-motion brace would be more appropriate in these instances, not a brace such as the Formfit ROM.
How Does a Formfit ROM Brace Work?
The Formfit ROM is a knee brace that wraps around the knee 360 degrees.
It is made of a strong, semi elastic but breathable fabric,. It provides comfortable compression, which can help control swelling and give its wearers a feeling of support and proprioception.The medial lateral uprights in the brace can provide stability through medial lateral control (aka varus/valgus control).
We can also insert range-of-motion stops into the hinge to prevent the knee from bending or extending too much depending on the desired range of motion. Knee flexion can be controlled at 45, 60, 75 and 90 degree intervals, and knee extension can be controlled at 10, 20, 30 and 40 degree intervals.
Choosing the Correct Brace, Customisations
While some patients may come to Orthotics Plus already knowing what kind of brace they want, we always start with a comprehensive assessment. This is to ensure all options have been considered and the patient is guided towards the most appropriate prescription.
Braces will be fitted on the same day where possible, the patient will provide their feedback in terms of comfort. Orthotics Plus stocks many braces to consider.
The exact ROM permitted will be dictated by instructions of the referring doctor, surgeon, Physio or at the discretion of Orthotics Plus.
During the initial appointment, we will schedule any upcoming appointments to verify that the patient is rehabilitating and to ensure the brace remains appropriate.
We will seek feedback regarding physical rehabilitation, as the patient should be on a program to improve lower limb strength and function.
How Conservative is a Formfit ROM Brace?
The Formfit ROM brace serves as a hybrid between a post-op brace and a functional brace, it is a popular choice for Orthotists as it’s appropriate for many low/medium grade injuries.
It can be worn after an acute injury or potentially after surgery as well. It’s not as heavy or as bulky as a post-op brace, so patients can easily wear it on walks or around the house.
While it comes in various sizes (XS to 3XL), we believe that it is highly appropriate for smaller patients, as larger patients may require an alternative brace.
Patient Experience
Individual patient experiences will vary depending on their injuries.
In general, the brace will be put on in the morning and worn throughout the day during weight-bearing activities and while walking or moving. Unless recommended by a physician, there’s generally no need to sleep in the brace.
The brace provides a sense of support, however is somewhat elastic – not rigid, so the patient can restore normal movement patterns.
Patients should be mindful of hygiene while wearing a brace daily. The leg should be kept clean and the brace gently washed by hand when appropriate.
Contact Orthotics Plus for a Knee Evaluation
Orthotics Plus is an Australian Allied health provider, we have multiple clinics throughout Australia and a long history of providing healthcare in Melbourne.
- Our senior Orthotists are university trained and possess over a decade of experience each
- We are kind and caring
- You are given choice and control
- We offer a high level of communication
Please contact our office for any questions you may have.
FAQ
An adult patient of ours had undergone surgery for a quadriceps tendon rupture.
Following the operation, he was in a Zimmer knee immobiliser for a few weeks before being permitted to begin range-of-motion exercises.
He was reasonably young, of average height and had quite a slim build. As a result, a hinged knee brace would be bulky and uncomfortable. We fitted him with the Ossur Formfit knee brace, which controlled his knee range of motion appropriately and was comfortable for him to wear all day and night (except for showering).
After several weeks of wearing the brace, he recovered well and was happy to return to his favorite activity of bike riding.
Braces are generally worn from six to 12 weeks.
The exact time period will depend on the nature of the injury and other factors. Wearing a brace for an acute injury longer than 12 weeks is rare.
Orthotics Plus is mindful of your holistic healthcare. During your visit, we’ll ensure you know:
- How to put on / take off the brace correctly
- How to make minor adjustments
- How to clean it
- How long to wear it each day
- How to participate in physical rehabilitation
Orthotics Plus is available to provide ongoing support (phone, in-person or telehealth) for any ongoing questions.
These are only available in black with a blue accent.
The right time to contact us is when you begin to experience pain or instability throughout the knee/lower limb, or after sustaining an injury.
You are also welcome to visit your GP/surgeon first who may refer to us.
A referral is not required to visit Orthotics Plus. You are welcome to contact us via phone for any questions prior to committing for an appointment.