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Using a Jewett Brace
Using a Jewett Brace
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How to put on your Jewett Brace
Keep your brace at your bedside so you can easily reach it without getting up.
1. Lie flat on your back to put the brace on.
2. Put the front section of the brace so that the top of the chest pad is two
fingers widths below your collarbone. Make sure that the upper pad of the
brace is across your breast bone or sternum and bottom pad is across
the front of your lower trunk or pubic bone.
3. Bend both legs by sliding your heels towards your buttocks, push with
your heels and roll onto your right side. Roll like a log. Do not twist!
4. Position the back section of the brace in the centre of your back.
5. Roll onto your back and onto the back section of your brace.
6. Attach the front and back pieces of the brace together.
(a) Pull the strap from the back piece
and latch the plastic piece over the
screw to lock it in place.
(b) On the other side, push the lock tab down to lock in place.
(c) Check to see that the brace Check to see that the brace is aligned
before getting up. The brace should appear level and symmetrical
(equal on both sides). The back pad of the brace should be in the
centre of your back.
If the brace is not fitting comfortably, do not try to adjust it yourself.
Call the office of the Orthotist who fitted you for the brace.
How to remove your Jewett Brace
1.
Unlock the brace on the left side.
2.
Unlatch the screw on the right side.
3.
Log roll onto your right side.
4.
Lift the back piece of the brace towards the front brace section.
5.
Log roll onto your back and remove the brace.
Moving around while wearing a Jewett Brace
Getting out of bed:
1.
Log roll onto your side.
2.
Drop your legs over the side of the bed and push yourself up to a
sitting position.
Getting into bed:
1.
Sit on the side of the bed and lean down on your elbow and forearm.
2.
Lift your legs up onto the bed, staying in the side lying position.
3.
Log roll from your side onto your back.
Bathing
Sponge bathing is recommended while wearing your brace. It is not
recommended that you wear your brace in the shower or bath as the metal
can rust and pads can become moldy. As your back heals you may be
permitted to shower without the brace, but only as directed by your surgeon.
Cleaning the brace
Someone will need to help you clean the brace. Use mild soap and water to
clean the padded areas. Be sure to allow the pads to dry completely before
wearing it again. Do not put the brace under water.
Dressing
Wear a snug t-shirt or undershirt under the brace for both skin protection
and comfort. Put the t-shirt on while lying in bed, rolling side to side.
