How to Use an Aircast
Aircast is a brand of orthopedic body braces by DJO Incorporated. Aircast makes a line of ankle braces, walking braces, cold therapy cuffs, upper extremity braces, knee braces and vascular system cuffs. Air cast braces use air pockets called "air cells" to provide a cushion of support around the injury. Aircasts can be bought online or by phone (see Resources). The most common Aircast model is an ankle sprain device, the Air-Stirrup Ankle Brace, so the instructions here will pertain to that.
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Instructions
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Go to the doctor. Your physician will give you an X-ray to determine whether your ankle is broken. If it's a sprain, your doctor may recommend an Aircast to heal your sprain.
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Size yourself for an Aircast Air-Stirrup Ankle Brace. For most adults, the "standard" size is ideal for most ankle sprains. For most adults who have suffered with chronic ankle problems, the 9-inch "training" size works best. For young adults or adults under the height of 5 feet 2 inches tall, the "small" size is ideal, and finally, the "pediatric" size is best for children age 2 to 6.
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Adjust the width of the heel pad. Open the brace and lift the air cell from the brace until the heel pad is entirely exposed. Pull up the heel straps out of the heel pad to resize the width of the pad. Test the pad with your foot until it's the ideal size. Replace the air cell and press firmly.
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Put on the Aircast. Put an absorbent sock on your foot. Put the round area of the heel pad under your heel and line up the sides of the brace with your ankle. Secure the straps, starting from the bottom and working your way to the top.
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Adjust the brace. Put on a lace-up sneaker for ultimate support. Squeeze the sides of the brace together and tighten the straps until you feel comfortable support on both ankles.
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Tips & Warnings
You can carefully walk while wearing your Aircast if your doctor allows it.
If you experience bruising, you may have broken your ankle. See a doctor.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit http://sxc.hu/profile/ZoofytheJi
