A wrist hand orthosis is a custom fit or molded brace used to support weak muscles and/or immobilize or limit the motion of joints.  It may be made of thermoplastic, canvas, metal, or a combination of materials. 

The following instructions were designed to help you properly clean, care for, and use your new WHO.  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

If your brace is made from thermoplastic material, you will need to wear a cotton sock between your skin and the brace.  Your orthotist may have provided you with a special sock to wear.  This sock will absorb perspiration and help protect your skin.

Check your wrist and hand for any red spots when you remove the brace.  If the reddened area does not fade after 20 minutes, call your orthotist.  This is especially important if you are diabetic or have poor sensation in your wrist or hand.

Don’t feel discouraged if you feel your orthosis isn’t fitting properly.  This is fairly common and can be easily remedied by your orthotist.  Call our office to schedule an appointment if your orthosis needs to be adjusted. 

Care of Your WHO

At least once a week, hand wash the thermoplastic sections of your brace with mild soap and water.  Rinse well.

Follow any washing instructions on the tag sewn into the canvas section of your brace.

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.