Orthopedic Braces

Consult your healthcare provider to determine the right mobility device for your needs.

Orthopedic Braces

Orthopedic braces, also called orthotic devices or orthoses, are designed to support and stabilize your joints and muscles. They are often used to manage musculoskeletal conditions by preventing excessive joint movement, relieving pain, or providing other benefits. They can be used short-term to aid in recovery from an injury, prevent further injury, or provide long-term support for managing chronic pain or improving function. They enhance  your stability, reduce fatigue, and help you maintain mobility.

Orthopedic braces come in various types and can be customized to fit your specific needs, including:

  • Prophylactic brace: This type of brace is designed to provide extra stability to your joints to prevent injuries and is typically used when you are engaging in high-contact sports. 
  • Rehabilitative brace: This type of brace is designed to limit movement of an injured area to support healing and prevent further injury. 
  • Functional brace: This type of brace is designed to provide support to an injured joint while still allowing you movement. 
  • Offloading brace: This type of brace is designed to reduce pressure on a particular joint to reduce pain and prevent further damage.

Some specific types of orthotic braces include:

  • Spinal orthoses
  • Foot orthoses
  • Ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs)
  • Knee orthotics
  • Knee-ankle-foot orthotics (KAFOs)
  • Wrist-hand orthotics (WHOs)
  • Wrist-hand-finger orthotics (WHFOs). 

How can I get an orthopedic brace?

  • Consulting with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care provider (PCP), physical therapist (PT), or occupational therapist (OT), is essential to determine the right orthopedic brace for your needs. Some braces are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription and may need to be custom-fitted. Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate device for your condition and provide guidance on how to use it properly and safely.

Insurance Coverage: Your insurance may cover orthopedic braces, but coverage details depend on your plan. You might need prior approval, a doctor’s prescription, or a letter explaining why you need it. Check your insurance plan for details on durable medical equipment (DME) coverage. Your doctor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or DME provider can help you through the process.


List of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Providers and Equipment Loan Closets in NH

DRC-NH does not endorse any of the providers listed below. This information is provided solely for informational purposes.


All About Assistive Technology

Consulting with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care provider (PCP), physical therapist, or occupational therapist, is essential to determine the right assistive technology for your needs. They can assess your situation, recommend the most suitable technology, and provide training on how to use it safely and effectively.

Assistive Technology

We help individuals identify and acquire technology necessary to help students access their curriculum, assist individuals who want to work become employable and successful in the job market, and help people with disabilities enjoy life and stay engaged with their communities.


The information above was created as part of a capstone project by a 2024/2025 LEND Trainee in collaboration with the NH-ME LEND Program.

Learn more at https://iod.unh.edu/nh-me-lend.


About DRCNH

Disability Rights Center – New Hampshire is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers for people with disabilities across New Hampshire. DRC is the federally designated protection and advocacy agency for New Hampshire and has authority under federal law to conduct investigations in cases of probable abuse or neglect.


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