The following braces can help support the parts of your body that have weakened muscles. Your doctor, occupational therapist, or physical therapist will recommend and prescribe the best type of brace for you.
|
Neck brace
a brace that can help support your neck and head if your muscles are weakened Covered by insurance |
|
Hand or wrist brace or splint
a brace or splint that gives extra support to your hand or wrist if your muscles are weakened Covered by insurance |
|
Ankle foot brace
also called an ankle foot orthosis (AFO), it helps you walk with more stability, spend less energy, and be less likely to trip Covered by insurance |
About Insurance Coverage
Medicare will cover 80% of durable medical equipment (DME) that it considers long-lasting, medically necessary, and intended for home use. Medicaid and private insurance usually follow Medicare's guidelines and can pick up the remaining 20%. In order to get a piece of equipment covered, it must be properly documented by your doctor.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance do not cover all equipment, which means you may have to pay out of pocket for some devices. But before spending any of your own money, always ask your local ALS organization if you can borrow specific devices from their loan closet at no cost.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance do not cover all equipment, which means you may have to pay out of pocket for some devices. But before spending any of your own money, always ask your local ALS organization if you can borrow specific devices from their loan closet at no cost.
Equipment Safety
Consult your physical or occupational therapist before buying or using any medical equipment. Also ask your local ALS organization to assess your equipment needs.
To avoid unnecessary injuries, you and your caregiver(s) should receive training from your physical or occupational therapist on how to safely and properly use each piece of equipment.
To avoid unnecessary injuries, you and your caregiver(s) should receive training from your physical or occupational therapist on how to safely and properly use each piece of equipment.
