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Patient walking with custom knee brace and forearm crutches during Physiotherapy at Cogent Rehab Burlington

Custom Bracing

Custom Bracing in Burlington – Support, Stability & Recovery at Cogent Rehab

What Is Custom Bracing?

Custom bracing refers to orthopaedic devices designed and fitted to an individual’s body to immobilize, support, or align a joint or body part affected by injury, surgery, or chronic conditions.​

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists prescribe and fit custom braces to help patients:

  • Recover from injuries

  • Protect joints before or after surgery

  • Manage chronic conditions like arthritis

  • Improve alignment and stability for safer movement

Braces may be made from materials such as metal, durable plastics, or composites, and are tailored to your exact needs and measurements.

Benefits Of Custom Bracing?

Custom bracing is used to:

  • Provide joint stability and reduce unwanted motion

  • Improve alignment and biomechanics

  • Reduce pain and swelling

  • Offload pressure on injured or arthritic joints

  • Promote healing and safer return to activity

  • Prevent re-injury during sports or daily activities

Whether you’re returning to sport, recovering after surgery, or managing degenerative joint disease, bracing can be a valuable tool in your rehabilitation.

Knee Bracing at Cogent Rehab

Knee braces are among the most common and versatile types of custom bracing:

  • Neoprene sleeve – Provides compression to reduce pain and swelling

  • Patellofemoral brace – Helps stabilize the kneecap and improve tracking

  • Hinged brace – Protects ligaments from side-to-side motion with rigid bars

  • ACL brace – Prevents excessive rotation and supports recovery after ligament surgery

  • Knee immobilizer – Used post-surgery or after ligament injuries to limit motion

 

Bracing for Knee Osteoarthritis

While braces cannot reverse joint damage, they can manage pain and improve function. The 2019 American College of Rheumatology Guidelines recommend knee braces as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for patients with patellofemoral or tibiofemoral osteoarthritis.

When Should You Use a Brace?

Bracing is recommended after an accurate diagnosis from your physiotherapist or physician. It is typically used:

  • Following injury or surgery

  • For joint instability

  • During rehabilitation for chronic conditions like arthritis

  • To support safe return to work, sport, or daily activity

At Cogent Rehab, we fit and train patients on the safe use of braces and integrate them into broader physiotherapy programs.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of custom bracing depends on the type and level of customization:

  • Off-the-shelf braces (like neoprene sleeves) are more affordable

  • Custom-fitted braces (like ACL or immobilizers) cost more but provide superior support

Most extended health insurance plans in Ontario cover braces prescribed and fitted by a physiotherapist. Patients are encouraged to confirm details with their provider before purchasing.

Get Fitted for a Custom Brace in Burlington

If you’re struggling with joint pain, instability, or recovering from injury or surgery, custom bracing may be the support you need.​

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists will assess your condition, recommend the right brace, and ensure a proper fit so you can move with confidence.

 

Call us at 905-635-4422 or Book Your Appointment Online to schedule your custom bracing consultation today.

FAQs About Custom Bracing in Burlington

Q1. Do I need a prescription for a custom brace?

Not always. At Cogent Rehab, our physiotherapists can assess your condition and recommend a brace. Some insurance providers, however, may require a physician’s prescription for coverage.

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Q2. How long should I wear my brace?

The duration depends on your diagnosis and recovery plan. Your physiotherapist will give clear instructions on how and when to use your brace safely.

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Q3. Can braces cure osteoarthritis?

No. Braces cannot reverse joint damage but they can reduce pain, improve function, and support mobility in patients with arthritis.

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Q4. What is the difference between custom and off-the-shelf braces?

  • Custom braces are fitted to your unique anatomy and provide maximum support.

  • Off-the-shelf braces are pre-sized, more affordable, but less tailored.

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Q5. Is custom bracing covered by insurance in Ontario?

Yes, most extended health insurance plans cover bracing prescribed by physiotherapists. Patients should confirm coverage details with their insurance provider.

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