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.
Brace Applications:
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
Brace Features:
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.
Handwashable
Vet approved and preferred
Non-neoprene
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.
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.
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.
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:
Remove as much hair as possible from any Velcro® frequently to prevent compaction.
Use lint roller or lightly adhesive tape to remove hair from the material of the brace.
By hand, use warm water and a gentle cleansing soap to remove any stains and odors.
Rinse soap thoroughly from the brace
Hang to dry. Once the brace is completely dry, it is ready for use!
How Do we Stack Up?
US vs THEM
Many Sizes Available
Non-NeopreneMaterial
Stabilization Splints
Wide Size Variety
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See if your pet insurance will cover a prescription for Balto®
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).
Asked my vet why the dog was still limping. She thinks a torn ligament. I live in a small town and it will cost thousands by the time I travel for an orthepedic recommendation, CAT scan and possible surgery. The vet recommended the Balto Flexor and gave me the information to order one. It came quickly with an instruction booklet. We are using it now for when the dog and I go for walks. His lameness has improved significantly even though he doesn't like the brace. I have great hopes this will help his body repair the damage because this guy is too young to be crippled up. Thank you.
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JakeReviewed by Jake
Verified Reviewer
Rated 5 out of 5
Steady brace
It's been very sturdy and helping my dogs gait since he has a luxating patella. Great product!
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T. H.Reviewed by T. H.
Verified Buyer
Rated 5 out of 5
Life Saver!
My boy was born with unopertable OCD. He is 7 and 1/2 now and We recently had a flare up that made it unable to stand. He is 150 lbs, our Help Em Up harness allowed us to get him up however this brace allowed him to be able to stand and walk on his own. Thank you!
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Balto® USA
Hi Tamera, thank you for leaving such a wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that the brace has been a lifesaver for your fur baby and has helped alleviate the discomfort caused by his condition. It's our mission to provide quality products that improve the quality of life for pets and their owners. We're so glad the brace has allowed your boy to regain mobility and independence. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or need assistance. We're always here to support you and your beloved pet.
Review posted
Tamera H.Reviewed by Tamera H.
Verified Buyer
Rated 5 out of 5
Thank you!
My dog was born with inoperative OCD in his hock. He is now 7 1/2 years old and has just had a severe episode and I found this brace. It is allowing my baby to walk, thank you
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Jessica T.Reviewed by Jessica T.
Verified Buyer
Rated 5 out of 5
Great product! Jessica Terry and Lucky
Balto flexor is an amazing product. It gives the support my 13 year Beagle mix needed. Excellent quality and fast shipping!
Thank you,
Jessica and Lucky 🐾
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