Measure Correctly for Patient Support

Correct and consistent measurement of a patient’s foot length is critical in ensuring that the final brace fits as perfectly as possible. Our order forms have an area for entering foot length measurements to help us get you the brace your patient requires. When measuring your patient’s foot for length, measure from the most posterior part of the heel to the end of the longest toe with the foot stretched out and bearing weight whenever possible. If your patient is able to bear weight on the floor, place a fabric tape measure next to or under the foot. This method works well for establishing the actual foot length when standing in a brace.

The “Finished Brace Length” should be the foot length (as measured above) plus approximately 5% extra for growth. For example, for a five inch foot this would be an additional .25 inch or a Finished Brace Length of 5.25 inches. If the patient is in a fast growth cycle, add 6-7%. If the patient is not likely to grow as much (older teenager or adult), add a minimum of 1/4" inch to the measured foot length to assure adequate brace length.

At the time of fitting, assess the length after you have had the patient put weight on the foot while wearing the brace. If the brace is too long, the plastic toe plate can easily be cut back with a sturdy pair of scissors. Warming up the plastic with a heat gun first will make the trimming easier and smoother. However, if the brace comes back too short, a complete remanufacturing of the brace is required which will result in delays for your patient.