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If you are experiencing muscle weakness that is making it harder to walk, hold your head up, or do daily activities with your hands, tell your physical and occupational therapists during your next ALS clinic visit.
Your therapists will document your need for braces and will either give you a brace or suggest you go to a local orthotist to get fitted for one. |
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If you want to get your braces paid for by insurance, you will need a prescription from your neurologist. If you do not live near or attend an ALS clinic, start with your local ALS neurologist.
For information on payment and insurance, visit the neck brace, ankle foot brace, and wrist brace pages.
For information on payment and insurance, visit the neck brace, ankle foot brace, and wrist brace pages.
Can I buy braces online or in a store?
You can find many braces online and in stores, and there is a chance you will find one that works well for you. However, we recommend starting with your local medical team.
There is no substitute for experienced professionals who can assess your individual needs, prescribe the right style of brace for you, and answer your questions. An orthotist or physical or occupational therapist who has worked with ALS patients will know what types of braces work best for the needs and progression of this disease.
There is no substitute for experienced professionals who can assess your individual needs, prescribe the right style of brace for you, and answer your questions. An orthotist or physical or occupational therapist who has worked with ALS patients will know what types of braces work best for the needs and progression of this disease.
This professional will be able to fit you and make adjustments during and after your visit. When you get a prescription, the order will be processed through your insurance.
There may be some helpful, less expensive braces or pillows that you can purchase online or in a store. Keep in mind that insurance will probably not cover these purchases. If you feel you need a brace before you can see your neurologist, you can try buying the brace yourself.
Before paying out of pocket for a brace, ask your local ALS organization if they can lend you one from their loan closet.
There may be some helpful, less expensive braces or pillows that you can purchase online or in a store. Keep in mind that insurance will probably not cover these purchases. If you feel you need a brace before you can see your neurologist, you can try buying the brace yourself.
Before paying out of pocket for a brace, ask your local ALS organization if they can lend you one from their loan closet.
What if I get home and have trouble with my brace?
After receiving your new brace, you should follow the recommended wearing schedule so you can gradually get used to the brace. Be aware of areas with too much pressure, and check for skin irritation and sores. If you are concerned about how it fits or feels, contact the person who fitted your brace. They should be able to make suggestions or adjustments that will help.
Getting Your Braces On and Off
Because it can be hard to put your braces on and take them off by yourself, it’s a good idea to have your caregiver or another person accompany you to your braces appointment. Your caregiver should learn how to put on each brace, take it off, and make adjustments. The orthotist may be able to modify the straps on your braces to make it easier for you to get them on and off if you have hand weakness.
