Swiss Orthopedic Leather Ankle Brace (SOLAB) User Guide

To ensure proper usage and care of your SOLAB, follow these instructions:

1. Sock Selection:
- Always wear a clean cotton sock, preferably non-elastic, to minimize friction and protect against perspiration.
- Smooth out any sock wrinkles to enhance comfort.
- Change socks if perspiration builds up.

2. Footwear Requirements:
- Your shoe should be a lace-up design with a removable insole.
- Remove the insole on the side where you wear the brace.
- Do not wear the brace with heels, flip-flops, sandals, or high-top boots. Sneakers and extra-depth shoes are recommended.

3. Donning the Brace:
- Loosen the top laces to allow the brace to open up.
- Insert your foot by pointing your toes downward into the top opening of the brace.
- While holding the brace with both hands, work your heel into the brace.
- If you encounter difficulty, open the laces a bit more.
- Once your foot is inside the brace, position the leather tongue by tugging the open side into the opposing side, avoiding wrinkles.
- Lace up the brace tightly, adjusting to your tolerance.

4. Shoe Application:
- Take your shoe and wiggle it over your foot and brace.
- Close your shoe securely.

5. Walking with the Brace:
- You are now ready to walk with your brace.
- Note that the brace is corrective, and you may experience temporary discomfort.

6. Initial Usage:
- On the first day, wear the brace for one hour.
- Increase wearing time by 30 minutes each consecutive day thereafter.

7. Skin Inspection:
- After each use, inspect your skin for any irritation caused by the brace.
- If irritation occurs, contact our office for further guidance.

8. Adjustments and Modifications:
- Your brace may need adjustments for optimal fit.
- Do not persist if you develop painful irritation, blisters, or ulcers. Contact our office for brace modification.

9. Follow-up Appointment:
- Schedule a follow-up with our office after four weeks of brace use to assess progress and make any necessary adjustments.