A UCBL foot orthosis (UCBL) is a rigid, plastic, arch support designed to correct the position of your foot. It is called a “UCBL” foot orthosis because it was designed at the University of California-Berkeley Lab. The trim line in the foot and heel area of a UCBL foot orthosis is much higher than other arch supports.
The following instructions were designed to help you properly clean, care for, and use your new UCBL. Please read these instructions carefully and let your orthotist know if you have any questions. Compliance with your health care providers’ instructions is essential for the effective use of this device. Be sure to follow any special instructions given to you by your physician or orthotist, in addition to those provided here.
Wearing Instructions
Wear your UCBL in a lace-up or Velcro shoe that has enough room for both your foot and the orthosis to fit comfortably. If you need help choosing what shoe to wear, ask your orthotist.
Begin wearing your new orthosis for about 1 hour at a time, and then take it off for 20 to 30 minutes. Alternate between wearing the orthosis and resting your foot for the first few days. This will allow your foot to get used to your new orthosis gradually.
Gradually increase the amount of time you wearing your orthosis throughout the next several days.
Check your foot for red pressure areas when you remove the orthosis. If the reddened area does not fade after 15 to 30 minutes, call your orthotist. This is especially important if you are diabetic or have poor sensation in your feet.
Don’t worry if your orthosis feels awkward. A new brace always feels unfamiliar at first. Your brace should gradually feel more natural over the course of approximately two weeks.
Days 1-3: Wear 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Days 4-6 : Wear 60 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Days 7-10: Wear 90 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
Days 11-14: Wear full time or as prescribed by your physician
Care of Your Feet and UCBL
Wash your feet daily.
At least once a week, wipe the plastic sections of your brace with rubbing alcohol.
Potential Risks & Precautions
Check your skin every day for redness, blisters, discoloration, soreness, or swelling. Call our office and discontinue use of your orthosis immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Never attempt to adjust, repair, or otherwise modify your orthosis. The components of this device have been carefully chosen, assembled, adjusted, and secured according to your physician’s prescription and the manufacturers’ specifications. In order to maintain the safety and effectiveness of your device, adjustments may only be made by a qualified medical professional.
Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your orthotist. Call our office if any unexpected problems occur.
For medical emergencies, call 911 or your local hospital.
