D, Author at DAPHCO - Medical Equipment

Is a Bone Growth Stimulator For Spinal Fusion Useful?

Posted on December 20, 2022January 25, 2024 by D

Yes. Over 400,000 people in the US undergo spinal fusion surgery annually.

This procedure aims to alleviate back pain, correct deformities, and prevent excessive movement of the vertebrae. Such movement could potentially lead to further damage. However, in 30% of cases, trying to join two bones together during surgery doesn’t work, causing severe back pain.

A bone growth stimulator helps bones heal faster or fix surgeries that didn’t work. Doctors prescribe this device. Bone growth stimulators have a clinical success rate of 92% in healing the spine completely after a surgery procedure.

Patients who use the bone growth stimulator for spinal fusion are twice more likely to have their bones fused successfully. These devices use electromagnetic energy to help bones heal naturally, which is crucial for the surgery to be successful. In addition to treating a failed fusion, bone growth stimulators reduce the chances of revision surgery.

About The Spinal Fusion Process

Spinal fusion is essentially a welding process to fuse two or more vertebrae using equipment and bone graft. The surgeon uses tools like devices, screws, rods, or plates for medical procedures. Spinal fusion stops bone movement, reducing back pain and restoring spine stability. During surgery, the surgeon places your own bone, a donor’s bone, or another substance near the implants to perform a bone graft.

Doctors use bone graft to stimulate the body’s natural ability to grow bones. The bone graft completes in 3 steps:

1. Inflammatory Stage: In this stage, the cells start forming new tissues.

2. Repairing Stage: In the next stage, small blood vessels begin to regrow.

3. Bone Remodeling Stage: In this stage, the bone structure becomes strong.

Once the surgery is complete, “osteogenesis — a process in which the human body starts forming bone tissues” begins. The spinal fusion forms an internal cast that enables the inflammatory process to enhance bone healing. Of course, the fusion does not occur overnight, rather it is a process that takes time. The bone growth process might take a few months or up to one year to unite the bone pieces into a solid construct.

Common Spinal Conditions Treated With Spinal Fusion

Following are some conditions that may require the surgery:

• Intervertebral disc disease

• Herniated disc

• Spinal Stenosis

• Adult degenerative scoliosis

• Fractures

• Spondylolisthesis – where one of the bones in your spine, called a vertebra, slips forward

Risk Of A Slow Or Failed Spinal Fusion

Some patients are always at risk of slow bone growth — spinal fusion taking longer than a normal period. A failed fusion also has the names of non-union or pseudoarthrosis. It occurs mostly in people who have diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, or use tobacco.

Getting older, drinking alcohol, certain fractures, and certain medications can make it difficult for bones to heal correctly. Because of this risk, your surgeon might prescribe a bone growth stimulator to wear after the surgery.

How Does Bone Growth Stimulator For Spinal Fusion Work?

Bones, much like skin, are dynamic living tissues with a remarkable ability to regenerate and heal. When a bone breaks or becomes injured, the body initiates a smart healing process. Surprisingly, the bone itself plays a role in this natural healing, using its own electrical properties. A broken bone generates its own electrical field, which plays a crucial role in stimulating the bone-healing process.

In cases where the natural healing process is impaired, medical intervention becomes necessary. This is where electrical bone growth stimulators come into play.

These innovative devices mimic and enhance the body’s natural healing mechanisms. By emitting low-level electrical signals, these stimulators activate the bone regrowth process, a phenomenon known as osteogenesis. The electrical signals effectively jumpstart the bone cells, encouraging them to proliferate and form new, healthy bone tissue.

An important note that bone growth stimulators are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Doctors prescribe them with careful consideration, especially for individuals who have reached skeletal maturity.

Skeletal maturity signifies that each bones have fully developed. Cartilage cells stop growing in the growth plates, making them thinner and eventually turning into fully developed bones. In adults, bones fuse together, joining the end with the main part, in a process called spondylodesis or spinal fusion.

Bone growth stimulators help the healing process go faster when the body takes longer to recover from medical issues, fractures, or surgeries. By providing the necessary electrical stimulation, these devices accelerate the healing process, reducing recovery time and enhancing the overall outcome of the treatment.

Simply put, bone growth stimulators show how medical innovation and the body’s natural healing abilities work together. These devices use electrical signals to help people whose bones need an extra boost to heal and regain full strength and function.

Different Types Of Electrical Bone Growth Stimulators

Bone growth stimulators come in various types, and each one works in its own way. Some surgeons implant some types of bone growth stimulators (internal BGS), while others are worn outside the body (external BGS).

Invasive:

A type of invasive external bone growth stimulator (EBGS) is placed inside a muscle space, and an electrode is positioned in or around the specific surgical area. These devices are implanted during surgery and work for six to nine months before being taken out in another surgical procedure.

Non-Invasive

A non-invasive EBGS is worn outside the body. They generate and send weak electrical energy 360° around the surgery site. The electrical signals are invisible and cause discomfort in the body. They work effectively when used over bracing or clothing and have a high clinical success rate.

The latest bone growth stimulator is designed to help patients heal quickly while allowing them to perform their daily tasks easily. The clinal results of these devices show that more than 90% of the patients heal within six months of the surgery.

These are lightweight, battery-powered, and worn outside the body for a prescribed time period. Whatever activities you want to perform, you can do them while wearing electrical bone growth stimulators.

Are BNG Devices Covered By Insurance?

A bone growth stimulator is an expensive devices but thankfully, most BGS devices are covered by healthcare insurance. The coverage of BGS units depends on the insurance plans you have. If you have Medicare insurance, it will cover most of the associated price.

Note: A bone growth stimulator is not entirely free. Thus, it’s recommended to consult your insurance company to check how much the cost is covered.

How To Get A Bone Growth Stimulator For Spinal Fusion?

Daphco offers a top-notch and clinically approved bone growth stimulator for patients that undergone from a spinal fusion. This device supports them in achieving full recovery. If you’ve undergone spinal surgery, we also provide different spinal braces to patients to help them recover faster.

If you want to know more about our bone growth stimulator devices, contact us at 888-616-4156 or send an email to support@daphco.com.

Best Knee Brace For ACL And Meniscus Tear: A Guide For Patients

Posted on December 20, 2022May 30, 2024 by D

A meniscus tear and an ACL tear are two common knee injuries that can cause extreme pain and discomfort. The pain is a result of friction between the knee joint and bones. A meniscus or ACL tear can leave you struggling for days, weeks, or even months. To aid in faster healing and return to normal activities like walking and running, using a knee brace specifically designed for a meniscus tear or ACL tear can be helpful. These best knee brace for ACL and knee brace provide stability to the knee joint and enable a wider range of motion. If you’ve torn your meniscus and ACL tear, get the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tears from a medical supply company to speed up the healing process.

Before exploring the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear, it’s important to understand what meniscus tear and ACL tear are.

What Is Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries that can occur to people of all ages. So what is a meniscus? A meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that works as a shock absorber in the knee and provides a cushioning effect to the joint. It reduces friction and protects bones from wear and tear.

A meniscus tear occurs due to twisting, a sudden change in the direction, or when a piece of cartilage breaks loose and becomes stuck in the knee joint, causing it to lock up. When a meniscus is torn, it can cause extreme pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of Meniscus Tear

A torn meniscus might give you a popping sensation. Other symptoms include:

• Stiffness and swelling
• A feeling of your knee giving away
• Locked knee” feeling when trying to move
• Difficulty in straightening the knee

Who Might Tear A Meniscus?

Among athletes, a meniscus tear may result from trauma resulting from sports or recreational activities involving jumping or twisting motions. It is also a potential risk for older people who might experience a tear due to age-related meniscus degradation. Senior citizens between the age 40-60 or above experience this condition as the meniscus gets weaker with time. A good knee brace for meniscus tear provides extra stability and complements quick recovery.

Can Meniscus Tears Heal On Their Own

Meniscus tears can sometimes heal on their own with proper rest, physical therapy, and pain management. However, the extent and location of the tear can affect the likelihood of self-healing.

In some cases, a doctor might recommend you wear the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear to stabilize your joint. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove or repair the damaged tissue.

The decision for treatment should be made in consultation with a doctor, taking into consideration the severity of the injury, physical activity level, and overall health.

Will Wearing A Knee Brace Help A Torn Meniscus?

Yes. Though a knee brace for a meniscus tear does not cure the tear itself, they offer added support and stability during the healing process of a meniscus tear.

A quality knee brace can alleviate pressure on the meniscus and facilitate healing by safeguarding the knee. You can also use a knee brace for meniscus tears after surgery to immobilize the knee joint so it can recover fast.

What Is An ACL Tear?

An ACL injury occurs when the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee is stretched or torn, resulting in either a partial or full tear. If the tear is serious, it may injure the kneecap, ligaments, and cartilage as well.

ACL injuries are common in sports that involve rapid stops, directional changes, jumping, and landing such as soccer, basketball, football, and downhill skiing.

Symptoms of ACL Tear

When an ACL injury occurs, a “popping” sensation or a pop may be felt in the knee. The symptoms may include:

• Severe pain which makes it difficult to walk
• Rapid Swelling in the knee and surrounding area
• A feeling of instability
• Loss of range of motion

In this video, an expert has explained how you can check your torn ACL.

Do ACL tears heal on their own?

No, ACL tears cannot heal on their own – you either need a conservative treatment plan or go for surgery in severe cases. The healing procedure depends on whether the tear is partial or full. Your doctor will evaluate the severity of your injury. If the ACL ligament is only stretched or partially torn, it will respond well to conservation treatments such as anti-inflammatory medication, wearing the best knee brace for ACL tear, and physical therapy.

You can also do some exercises at home to rehab an ACL injury. In this video, an expert has explained some useful exercises to treat ACL injury.

Should You Wear A Knee Brace With A Torn ACL?

Yes. The best knee brace for ACL and Meniscus tear provide high-level support and protect the healing graft after reconstruction. Moreover, many patients, especially athletes who return to sports within one year of ACL injury used the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear to protect their knee and prevent re-injury.

How Can The Best Knee Brace For ACL And Meniscus Tear Relieve Pain?

As we know a torn ACL or meniscus can significantly affect your daily activities. Therefore, getting on top of these issues is important to prevent imbalance or further progression in the injury. The best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear will provide extra support and take the pressure off your knee, allowing it to rest and heal. Orthopedic knee braces are also used for support post meniscus tear knee injury.

The best knee brace for ACl and meniscus tear provides medical-grade compression, helps increase proprioception, and reduces swelling by promoting blood circulation in the affected area. These knee braces come with cushioning pads that keep the good alignment of the kneecap, provide extra support, and relieve pain.

Benefits Of Using The Best Knee Brace For ACL And Meniscus Tear

Using the best knee brace for ACL and Meniscus tear will provide the following benefits:

• Alleviate pain and control swelling
• Immobilize and stabilize knee joints and bones
• Relieve arthritis pain
• Support your knee while playing sports
• Provide knee support to older people so they walk with comfort

How To Choose The Best Knee Brace For ACL And Meniscus Tear?

The choice of the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear depends on each patient’s unique circumstances. There are different types of knee braces available and your choice should depend on the severity of your meniscus tear, which areas are injured and where are you in your recovery process.

Below we have shared different types of the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear based on their functionality and uses.

1. Hinged Knee Braces

Hinged knee braces are best designed to provide a high level of support to control instability in case of a torn ACL or meniscus. If you have torn meniscus on both sides, a hinged knee brace for meniscus tear will provide compression, decrease swelling & pain and promote faster healing within the knee. These braces are also useful for ligament injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL).

2. Rigid Knee Braces

Rigid braces have a sturdy, inflexible structure that controls the bending and keeps the knee stable. The primary function of these braces is to avoid lateral movements that may damage your ACL and meniscus. Rigid braces are commonly used for sportspeople as they provide strong outer protection during intense physical activity.

3. Offload Knee Braces

As the name suggests, an offload knee brace unloads or redistributes pressure and weight to the healthy side of the knee which can help relieve pain and recover quickly from a torn meniscus.
Crafted from molded plastic and steel stunts, an offload knee brace is the best option for degenerative meniscus tear caused by osteoarthritis (OA).

4. Soft Knee Brace

Athletes who need knee support after rehab use soft knee braces. They offer mild to moderate support and help treat a minor meniscus tear.

5. Compression Sleeves

A knee compression sleeve does not offer strong support but it is useful for improving the knee joint position sense. Compression sleeves are useful for people who require compression therapy to reduce pain and swelling in the knee.

Note: It is worth noting here that not everyone with a torn ACL or meniscus will require a brace. Some people heal with rest and medication. Thus, it is highly recommended to visit your healthcare provider before considering a knee brace. They will evaluate your knee condition and prescribe you the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear.

How Long Should You Wear A Knee Brace To Relieve Pain?

It all depends on the severity of the injury and advice from your healthcare provider or physical therapist. Make sure you follow the advice of your doctor and use a brace according to the guidelines.

Where To Buy The Best Knee Brace For ACL And Meniscus Tear Online?

Should you experience a meniscus tear, consider integrating a knee brace into your recovery journey. Daphco, a Medicare-approved supplier offers a range of knee braces to treat various knee injuries. If you’re not a Medicare beneficiary, we can assist in providing you with the best knee brace for ACL and meniscus tear at a minimal cost.

Does Medicare cover braces for your knee? Find all the information about Medicare knee surgery and knee braces coverage here.

How To Choose The Right Brace For Sciatica?

Posted on December 20, 2022May 30, 2024 by D

Sciatica is a common type of back pain that affects many adults. It occurs due to pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing a shooting pain that begins in the lower back and radiates down the legs. If you are suffering from sciatica, visit a doctor to see if a back brace is right for you. Check out our wide selection of Medicare back braces to help you find the best brace for you!

Before we look into how to choose the right brace for sciatica, it’s important to understand what exactly sciatica is.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica itself is not a condition but it’s a symptom of nerve compression. The nerve may be compressed or pinched because it is being rubbed against a bone, disc, joint, or ligament or due to any other medical condition. The resulting inflammation or swelling causes severe pain and numbness in the affected area.

It’s an extremely painful condition that affects only one side of the lower body. The pain extends from the lower part of the spine through the buttock down your legs. Depending on the location of the sciatica nerve, the pain may also travel down to your foot.

What Causes Sciatica?

As mentioned above, the sciatica nerve can become compressed or pinched due to several medical conditions. These conditions may include:

• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Lumbar Herniated Disk
• Bulging Disc
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spinal Stenosis
• Arthritis
• Trauma such as a fracture in your spine

In addition to that, sciatica nerve pain is also common among pregnant women. As the sciatica nerve runs under the uterus, your fetus may press on it. Wearing a brace for sciatica during pregnancy can relieve pain and treat some of the other symptoms stemming from lumbar back conditions. No matter what contributed to your sciatica pain, Daphco provides a wide range of Medicare back braces to treat all types of lower back pain.

What Are The Symptoms Of Sciatica?

Sciatica nerve pain involves the following symptoms:

• Severe lower back pain traveling down one side of the leg
• Pain in the rear that is worse when sitting
• Severe pain when you cough or sneeze
• Leg pain described as burning, tingling, and stabbing
• Numbness, weakness in leg muscles
• Sharp, stabbing pain – making it difficult to stand or walk

How Does A Brace For Sciatica Useful For Back Pain?

A brace for sciatica provides enough compression and support to alleviate pain, prevent further injury, and accelerate healing. When your lower back is sensitive due to nerve compression, it becomes hard to perform daily activities, e.g., getting up, walking, running, sitting, and turning. A medical brace for sciatica places dual compression and pressure on the lower part of the spine. Applying compression to the lower part of the spine has proved to be a good cure for back pain.

When an individual suffers from back pain due to spinal stenosis or herniated disc, a brace for sciatica is used to reduce the work that is placed on the spine. These pain-relieving braces are also useful for people who have to sit the entire day or whose jobs involve heavy lifting. A back brace for lower back pain will keep your spine in position and prevent it from aggravating.

How To Choose The Right Brace For Sciatica?

Before getting a brace for your back pain, it is essential to visit your doctor. They will perform a complete examination and recommend you the best brace based on the severity of your back pain.

Generally, there are three types of back braces: flexible, semi-rigid, and rigid. Flexible braces are made up of soft materials such as elastic blends/cotton, canvas, neoprene, etc. Semi-rigid braces are made up of somewhat sturdier fabric and it provides more restriction in the movement. Flexible and semi-rigid braces are useful for mild to moderate lower back pain. While rigid braces are used to treat severe back pain and provide assistance in case of spine fractures and post-spinal surgery.

The two most common types of back braces used for sciatica are:

1. Decompression Brace For Sciatica

Decompression back braces are the best solution to treat sciatica. These braces include a rigid low-back support and a decompression belt. The rigid part provides support while the decompression belt expands the low back belt. It expands intervertebral disc space, reduces pressure from the spinal column, and helps reduce pain in the affected area.

2. Sacroiliac (SI) Belts

Sacroiliac belts are useful for sciatica pain that results from sacroiliac joint dysfunction. These belts provide direct compression to stabilize the sacroiliac joints. They restrict the movements of the sacroiliac joint which may irritate or pinch the sciatic nerve. If there’s no irritation to the sciatic nerve, you’re less likely to experience any sciatic pain down the back of your leg. SI belts are suitable for everyday use as they are lightweight which makes them easy and comfortable to wear.

Where To Buy a Brace For Sciatica Online?

Sciatica pain can be either due to never compression or any other condition. Thus when choosing a sciatica back brace, make sure it relieves pain and improves your mobility. Your doctor might recommend you a Medicare brace for sciatica pain but if you need assistance, the Daphco team will help you choose the right brace for your condition. Contact us today to discuss your bracing needs.

Our two most popular braces for sciatica are:

1. ARYSE® ALPHAWRAP® COMPRESSION BACK BRACE
The ARYSE ALPHAWRAP compression back brace is designed for anyone suffering from sciatica pain. Its adjustable compression system and comfortable fit make it easy to wear under or over clothing. Whether you need a brace for sciatica or looking for a brace that will provide compression to your back, this is the right brace for you.

The brace is also suitable for a range of other conditions, including arthritis, back pain, mild postural weakness, sore or strained core muscles, and stiffness. Additionally, for extra compression, you can try the silicon padding brace that can aid in quick recovery.

2. ARYSE® ALPHAWRAP®+ BACK BRACE

The ARYSE® ALPHAWRAP®+ BACK BRACE provides compression for back to treat sciatica pain and protect your back from injury, Its 3D-weave technology and silicone padding ensure a comfortable fit that contours to the lower back and help reduce pain associated with sciatica. This brace provides compression to support the back, relieve pain, and promote recovery from injury.

Ideal for individuals with prophylactic protection needs, arthritis, postural weakness, sore or strained core muscles, and stiffness, the ARYSE ALPHAWRAP+ BACK BRACE is the best option for anyone looking to get rid of back pain due to sciatica or any other condition.

How Long Should You Wear A Brace For Sciatica?

The latest back braces for sciatica are made up of lightweight material. You can wear them all day long or even during sleep. However, wearing a back brace for a long time can cause irritation on the skin. That’s why it is recommended to consult your doctor before wearing a brace for a long time.

Other Natural Ways to Get Rid of Sciatica Pain

Along with using a brace, there are many other remedies that you can try at home to get rid of Sciatica pain. Here are some remedies to try at home:

1. Use A Pressure Relief Cushion

Taking rest is important to get rid of sciatica pain but make sure you’re resting the right way. Along with wearing a brace for sciatica, a pressure relief cushion is a valuable tool for managing sciatica pain. Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs.

A pressure relief cushion helps by evenly distributing weight and reducing pressure on the lower back, thereby reducing pain and discomfort. These cushions come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different body types and seating arrangements.

The 4 most common types of cushions used for Sciatica pain are:

1. Car Seat Gel Cushion – Used for pain in the lower back region or gluteal area.
2. Memory Foam Seat Cushion – Used for providing support on the sides and ease pain.
3. Donut Shaped Cushion – Used for giving relief from sciatica pain and make you feel stable
4. Cycle Seat Cushion – Used for relieving pressure on sciatica nerves and sitting nerves.

2. Stretch It Out

It may go against your instincts to try a physical activity such as stretching but it is quite effective at reducing sciatica symptoms and strengthening your spine. However, it should be performed gently and slowly. If you think stretching is causing more pain, stop immediately and consult your physiotherapist.

It is recommended to try stretches that are simple enough to try at home. Here are some of the most gentle stretches that can help with Sciatica pain:

• Reclined Pigeon Pose
• Supine Twist
• Seated Forward Bent
• Cat-Cow Stretches
• Bird-Dogs

3. Ice and Heat Therapy

Along with wearing a brace, Ice and heat therapy is also a true remedy to get immediate relief from Sciatica pain and speed up the healing process. Heat promotes blood flow to the painful area to speed up healing, while ice and heat may relieve muscle spasms that come with sciatica. Alternate using an ice pack for 15 minutes every hour and heat for 15 minutes every 2-3 hours. Ensure to always place a barrier, such as a towel, between skin and heat or ice, and avoid sleeping while undergoing heat or ice therapy.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Drugs & Steroid Injections

If your pain is not going away with home remedies, it is advised to visit your doctor. Your doctor may give you non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil and Tylenol to reduce inflammation and provide significant pain relief.

Patients who suffer from Sciatica pain due to herniated disc may benefit from steroid injections. Steroid injection work by reducing swelling of the spinal disc and alleviating pain in the area of nerve compression and surrounding tissues.

5. Do Exercise

Exercise can help alleviate pain by strengthening the muscles supporting the back, increasing flexibility and improving posture. Stretching and low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling can also reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. It is important to consult a doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise regimen for sciatica.

In this video, a specialist from Madden Physical Therapy has explained some of the best exercises to treat sciatica pain.

6. Purchase Back Brace

At Daphco Medical Equipment, we got you covered as we have various types of back brace. Braces that can relieve back pain and sciatic pains. Check this our product page or click this link to see our back braces.

To ensure complete recovery, you’ll need to wear a brace for sciatica, take prescribed medications, do the stretches mentioned above as well as get physical therapy. Your physician or healthcare provider can help you determine the right brace and physical therapy plan for a full recovery.

If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, you can get a back brace at a minimal cost. Check your Medicare beneficiary status here.

Does Medicare Cover Braces? Your Top Questions Answered

Posted on December 20, 2022September 21, 2023 by D

Does Medicare cover braces? Yes. Medicare Part B covers braces for the back, arm, and leg that are prescribed “necessary” by your healthcare provider and acquired through a Medicare-approved supplier. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, you may qualify for a brace that provides support & comfort for all-day wear and aids in quick recovery.

In this article, we’ll look at Medicare coverage plans for braces as well as where & how to get the right brace for you.

What Are Braces Used For?

Braces are the supports to be worn when you feel pain in your back, knee, shoulder, or any other joint. The human body is prone to injuries and the pain in the joints can affect a range of motion and daily comfort. Moreover, as we grow older, the joints start losing flexibility and durability making it difficult to walk, run or perform daily activities. No matter what contributed to the pain in your body, a brace can help you reduce your pain and recover faster.

Braces are designed to give support, stabilize and rehabilitate the affected area. These are used to limit the motion, provide nice targeted compression and alleviate the pressure all over. Braces are especially beneficial for senior people who are suffering from injuries or chronic conditions. By using braces, an elderly person’s independent mobility can improve significantly.

With guidance from a healthcare professional, a medically approved brace can provide the following benefits:

•A quick healing process after an injury
•Reduced pain and discomfort
•Therapeutic treatment
•Less risk of further injury
•Support for weak muscles and posture

With all the benefits considered, what might stop you from getting a brace is the ‘Cost.’

No doubt that braces are expensive. To further emphasize, thousands of people in the US face such conditions that require braces but can’t afford them at retail prices. That’s where the advantage of Medicare-covered braces comes in..

Are Braces Covered Under Medicare?

Yes. Medicare is federal healthcare insurance that besides covering the treatment cost also covers the cost of necessary braces and devices. It approves braces and devices when medically necessary to treat a condition. If you’ve Medicare insurance, you can get braces at a lower cost. Depending on the location of the injury and type of condition, braces may be used to support the back, neck, arm, or leg. Combining the use of Medicare orthotic equipment with other medications and care may delay the need for surgery.

Medicare not only covers for braces but surgeries such as knee replacement surgery as well. Costs and benefits may vary depending on the plan you have.

How To Get A Free Back Brace Covered By Medicare?

No, you cannot get a free back brace because Medicare braces aren’t entirely free.

Medicare Part B covers braces if deemed medically necessary which means a patient needs one to treat a medical condition. This plan covers 80% of your brace’s cost under its durable medical equipment (DME) benefit. Durable means that the brace will hold up for at least 3 years. You will have to pay the remaining 20% as long as your deductibles are paid for the year.

Many beneficiaries who have original Medicare purchase supplemental insurance or Medigap insurance that further covers part B deductible costs. If one has a Medicare Advantage Plan, it might help cover the full cost of a brace without any out-of-pocket costs.

How to Get Braces Covered By Medicare Insurance?

To get braces covered by Medicare, you need to:

1. Get enrolled in Medicare Part B
2. Get a description from a Medicare-enrolled healthcare provider stating that your brace is “necessary.”

Does Medicare Cover Braces For All Body Parts?

Yes. If you’ve Medicare Insurance, you can get:

1. Medicare Back Braces

Back braces or lumbosacral orthosis are covered by Medicare Insurance. Medicare back braces treat a wide range of conditions, most commonly used in post-surgical cases.

2. Medicare Knee Braces

If you have Medicare Part B, you can get 4 types of knee braces depending on your condition.

•Functional
•Rehabilitative
•Off-loader or unloader
•Prophylactic

3. Medicare Neck Braces

If you have Medicare insurance, you can get cervical collars and other neck-supporting devices at little cost.

4. Medicare Shoulder Braces

If you’re experiencing any pain in your shoulder, you can get braces, supports, and stabilizers under Medicare coverage.

5. Medicare Wrist braces

Medicare Insurance covers wrist braces for tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and brace for a sprained wrist.

6. Medicare Ankle Braces

If you have chronic ankle pain or osteoarthritis, Medicare will help cover the costs of ankle braces, stabilizers, and straps.

Does Medicare Cover Braces For Kids?

Yes. Medicare covers braces for all people who have insurance plans. Yes. Medicare covers braces for all people who have insurance plans. If an accident or illness requires restorative orthodontic treatment, it may be covered under your insurance

How Can You Obtain A Medicare Brace?

You can obtain a Medicare brace from your healthcare provider or Medicare-approved supplier.

1. Healthcare Provider

Before getting a brace, it is highly recommended to get an in-person appointment with your healthcare provider. He/she will examine your condition and write you a prescription. During the appointment, your doctor may refer you to a medical equipment supplier to get a condition-specific brace.

2. Medical Equipment Supplier

These are Medicare-contracted suppliers that provide medical braces to beneficiaries. If you have insurance or a description from a doctor, these suppliers will work with your insurance company and provide you with the right brace if you qualify.

Get Medicare Braces From Dapcho

Daphco is a trusted Medicare-approved supplier of braces. Whether you have Medicare Insurance or a description from your doctor, we will provide you with a custom-fit brace right for your condition. If you need a brace for an injury or any other condition, contact Daphco to get an insured-covered brace at little or no cost and live your life to the fullest.

The most commonly asked question we hear at Daphco is: Does Medicare cover braces for me? We can help you find the answer. Call us today or fill out the form to find out if you qualify for Medicare braces. If you qualify, your brace will be shipped fast to your doorstep.