How To: Adjusting Range of Motion (ROM) on Hinged Canine Orthopedic Braces

Adjusting the ROM on a dog brace can be tricky, but we’re here to answer some common questions about setting Balto® braces.

The Balto Ligatek – Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace and the Balto Flexor – Adjustable Hinged Hock Brace provide a controlled range of motion (ROM) or full immobilization depending on your dog’s needs. These braces are more commonly used pre- and post-surgically, but can also be used in place of surgery and during rehabilitation. When an injury or surgical procedure has occurred, having a gradual return to movement is key to a healthy and full recovery.

What Should the Range of Motion (ROM) Be Set To?

Although working closely with your licensed veterinarian is recommended when determining the appropriate ROM, there are some standard settings that can be used.

 Balto Ligatek – Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace: Total joint immobilization is recommended before surgery or under your licensed veterinarian’s direction. To lock the brace, you would set the flexion position (FLEX) to 30° and the extension position (EXT) to 30°. By controlling the joint movement, you can prevent the risk of hyperextension and hyperflexion. This setting can also be used after surgery or when using the brace as an alternative to surgery. To allow joint movement, you would set the flexion position (FLEX) to 75° and the extension position (EXT) to 30°.

Balto Flexor – Adjustable Hinged Kee Brace: Total joint immobilization is recommended before surgery or under your licensed veterinarian’s direction. To lock the brace, you would set the flexion position (FLEX) to 30° and the extension position (EXT) to 45°. By controlling the joint movement, you can prevent the risk of hyperextension and hyperflexion. This setting can also be used after surgery or when using the brace as an alternative to surgery. To allow joint movement, you would set the flexion position (FLEX) to 30° and the extension position (EXT) to 15°.

During certain instances you might even want to allow for open flexion while limiting the amount of extension. This can be achieved by simply removing the screws from the flexion position, but keeping them in the appropriate extension position. As stated previously, working closely with your licensed veterinarian is always recommended.