Flexor - Adjustable Hock Brace

The Balto^® Flexor is a post-surgical and rehabilitation brace with an adjustable hinge designed for canine ligament injuries and joint diseases of the hock. This brace has been designed to provide stability to the canine tarsal joints in the event of traumatic or congenital instability. The Flexor hock brace for canines provides full range of motion (R.O.M) control, which allows for partial or full immobilization of the joint; allowing you to customize to the pet’s needs. Regulated flexion-extension movements of the tarsal joint allow proper healing by reducing stress and excessive strain, depending on your dog’s need post-surgically.

• Provide contralateral support
• Post-surgical support
• Acute canine hock pain management
• ROM regulation for specific rehabilitation plans
• Conservative treatment; use as an alternative to surgery for ineligible surgical candidates

• Two lightweight airplane aluminum splints for support
• An adjustable external hinge with secure lock technology for a custom range of motion (ROM) setting
• Range of motion can be set to a variety of degrees:
• Full Joint Immobilization (typically used pre/post-surgically) = 30° Flexion Position (FLEX) / 45° extension position (EXT)
• Reduced Range of Motion (ROM) (typically used during rehabilitation) = 30° Flexion Position (FLEX) / 15° extension position (EXT)
• Length and width adjustable – upper and lower padding can be lengthened or shorten on the leg to ensure an excellent fit

Comes in sizes x-small/small through x-large/xx-large. To find the best size for your pet, visit the sizing chart here.

For dogs weighing over 50kg (110 lbs.) the brace should not be extended more than 1 cm (0.4 inch) at length for the top portion and 1 cm at length for the bottom portion. Adjusting the height too far from the center can create issues.

All Balto® braces are made from high-quality materials, not neoprene, which is known to: collect bacteria, provide inadequate support, and wear down quickly. A variety of sizes ensure a secure fit. No pinching straps.

Recommended for all ages unless otherwise advised by veterinarians. Apply brace for balanced increments of time, if appropriate, for pets under the age of 2 to prevent possible growth disturbances.

How to Apply Brace

Step 1

Adjusting the upper and lower padding (if needed): Use the biggest tool to loosen the two screws. Adjust the height of the padding by sliding it on the guide rail and then tightening the screws . Repeat on all four (Fig. 1 & 2).

Step 2

Adjusting the hinges: Use the smaller tool to adjust the hinges (Fig. 3).

Step 3

After setting the length and degree, prepare the brace by opening the straps. Place the brace on the leg and position the brace by lining up the central hinge with the tarsus (hock) (Fig. 4).

Step 4

Secure all the Velcro straps (starting with the bottom strap) around the leg by passing them through the buckles. Tightly close with the Velcro straps (Fig. 5 & 6).

• To which degree setting should my brace be set to?
  • For full immobilization of the joint, we recommend setting at the 30° flexion and the 45° extension. For a reduced range of movement for the joint, we recommend setting at the 30° flexion and the 15° extension. For other degrees, or more custom settings we recommend working with your veterinarian. Watch our video on how to adjust the degrees.
• How tight do screws need to be?
  • Until you meet resistance then stop, don't keep going. Continuing to tighten after feeling resistance can cause the metal to wear excessively over time; leading the brace to not work as intended.
• Which is better, the Hock brace or the Flexor brace?
  • Choosing between the options all depends on your doggo’s needs. The Flexor brace is typically used post-surgery or for more advanced injuries because it allows you to slowly reintroduce mobility as they heal. You can adjust the settings as needed. The Hock brace provides compressive and structural support.

Compare Like Braces

	Balto Flexor	Balto Hock
Uses	Used to control the range of motion (ROM) and stabilize the tarsus or hock.	Use to stabilize the tarsus or hock and provide compression.
Splints	The aluminum splints are not removable, but are adjustable.	The aluminum (slightly adjustable) splints are removable bilaterally.
Fit	Uses adjustable hinges and padding for a secure fit.	Uses adjustable Velcro for a secure fit.

Need Replacement Parts? The following parts are available for this brace:

REPLACEMENT PART Padding

A clean brace not only prevents infections, irritation, and a stinky smell; but it also allows your brace to last longer. To help support the longevity of your bracing device, here are some of our tips on how to properly clean your orthopedic bracing:

1. Remove as much hair as possible from any Velcro^® frequently to prevent compaction.
2. Use lint roller or lightly adhesive tape to remove hair from the material of the brace.
3. By hand, use warm water and a gentle cleansing soap to remove any stains and odors.
4. Rinse soap thoroughly from the brace
5. Hang to dry. Once the brace is completely dry, it is ready for use!