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Physiotherapy vocabulary · Gait, Mobility and Walking Aids

Brace

Meaning in physiotherapy, with examples

/breɪs/nounCommon term

In physiotherapy, brace means: A supportive device worn on a joint or part of the body, such as the knee, ankle or back, to protect it, limit movement or reduce load.

In Turkish: ortez, destek, korse

How it is used

The everyday word for an orthosis. Examples are a hinged knee brace after ligament surgery, an ankle brace for sport and an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) for foot drop after stroke. Physiotherapists fit and adjust braces, explain how to wear them and agree with the surgeon when to stop using them.

Example sentences

  1. Keep the knee brace locked straight when you walk for the first two weeks.

  2. An ankle brace can help her return to volleyball with more confidence.

Common collocations

  • knee brace
  • ankle brace
  • hinged brace
  • back brace
  • wear a brace
  • tapingApplying adhesive tape to the skin around a joint or muscle to support it, limit movement or change how it feels during activity.
  • walking frameA light metal frame with four legs, sometimes with wheels, that a person holds with both hands for support while walking.
  • sprainAn injury to a ligament, the strong band of tissue that joins bones together, usually caused by suddenly twisting or overstretching a joint.
  • weight-bearingPutting some or all of your body weight through a leg (or arm), especially when the amount allowed is limited after an injury or operation.

More terms: Gait, Mobility and Walking Aids

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.