Turtle Brace

What is a turtlebrace?

A turtle brace is a removeable, lightweight brace made from antibacterial fabric, designed to support and immobilise specific areas of the body. The brace is custom moulded to each child’s body part, providing a tailored fit that can be adjusted and remoulded over time as their needs change. At Upside we often use Turtlebracing as part of a treatment plan for child who toe walk, to support the foot and ankle. 

How can a turtle brace help my child?

Turtle brace offers several advantages over traditional casting, especially for children who needs gradual support, comfort or have sensory challenges around the area

• customised moulded support, offering full contact to the area allowing for optimal stabilisation and immobilisation of the area. 
• Breathable, antibacterial material that is comfortable and can be worn under clothes or shoes. 
• Removable allowing for gradual build up of wear time and tolerance to the brace.

Who can use the turtle brace?

Turtlebraces are incredible versatile and can be used for a range of conditions including:

• in serial casting for toe walking or spasticity
• experience low or high tone 
• need orthotic support for condition such as cerebral palsy or developmental delay
• working towards a goal to improve walking or joint alignment
• post operative immobilisation. 

At Upside we most commonly use Turtlebracing to assist with foot and ankle posturing, for condition like toe walking, neurological condition and abnormal foot posturing. If you are interested in more about toe walking please see out toe walking post.

Utilising a turtleback at the ankle can help to support the foot in a more ideal position to

• gently stretch the tight calf muscle
• improve overall foot posture and ankle movement
• reduce discomfort in the area
• limit the amount of time spent toe walking in the day
• improve joint position in a more desired posture for the child.

When combined with your child’s regular physiotherapy program, a Turtlebrace can be a powerful tool in supporting long-term progress

If you are interested in exploring the options of turtle bracing for your little one please reach out to Upside Kids Physio and Health