At Orthopedic Appliance Company, we understand that keeping your active child healthy and mobile is a top priority. When knee injuries or conditions affect your child's ability to play, learn, and grow, finding the right pediatric knee brace becomes essential. As Hickory's trusted provider of pediatric orthotic devices since 1960, we offer specialized knee bracing solutions designed specifically for children's unique needs and active lifestyles.
Expert Pediatric Knee Brace Solutions in Hickory
Our Hickory location provides expert fitting, custom fabrication, and ongoing support for all pediatric knee bracing needs. Whether your child is recovering from a sports injury, managing a chronic condition, or needs preventive support during athletic activities, our certified specialists will ensure they receive the perfect knee brace for their specific situation.
Why Choose Orthopedic Appliance Company for Your Child's Knee Brace
When it comes to pediatric knee braces in Hickory, NC, parents trust Orthopedic Appliance Company for several important reasons:
- Pediatric Specialization: Our team understands the unique challenges of fitting and adjusting braces for growing children
- Custom Fabrication: We create custom knee braces tailored to your child's exact measurements and specific condition
- Certified Orthotists: All fittings are performed by certified professionals with specialized training in pediatric care
- Comprehensive Evaluation: We conduct thorough assessments to determine the optimal bracing solution for your child
- Ongoing Support: From initial fitting through adjustments as your child grows, our team provides continuous care
- Insurance Assistance: We work with most major insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid
- Local Expertise: As a fixture in the Hickory community, we understand the unique needs of local families and active children
Types of Pediatric Knee Braces Available in Hickory
We offer a complete range of knee bracing solutions for children of all ages at our Hickory location:
1. Prophylactic Knee Braces
Designed to protect young athletes from injuries during sports and active play. These braces provide stability without restricting normal movement, making them ideal for children participating in high-impact activities like soccer, basketball, and football.
2. Functional Knee Braces
Support and stabilize knees with existing injuries, particularly ligament injuries such as ACL, MCL, or PCL sprains or tears. These braces allow children to maintain appropriate activity levels while protecting the knee during healing.
3. Rehabilitative Knee Braces
Immobilize the knee while allowing controlled movement during recovery from surgery or serious injury. These braces are critical during the healing process and can be adjusted as recovery progresses.
4. Patellofemoral Braces
Address kneecap tracking issues and provide stability for conditions like patellar tracking disorder or after kneecap dislocation—common problems in growing children, especially those involved in jumping sports.
5. Unloader/Offloader Braces
Reduce pressure on specific parts of the knee joint, which can be beneficial for children with juvenile arthritis or other conditions affecting joint surfaces.
6. Custom-Fabricated Solutions
For complex cases or unique anatomical needs, our Hickory facility offers fully customized knee bracing solutions created specifically for your child's measurements and condition.
The Fitting Process for Pediatric Knee Braces
At our Hickory location, fitting your child for a knee brace involves a careful, comprehensive process:
- Initial Consultation: We begin with a thorough discussion of your child's condition, activities, and lifestyle needs
- Physical Evaluation: Our certified orthotists examine your child's knee, gait, and movement patterns
- Precise Measurements: We take detailed measurements to ensure optimal fit and function
- Brace Selection: Based on the evaluation, we recommend the appropriate type and style of knee brace
- Custom Fabrication (if needed): For custom solutions, we create a brace specifically designed for your child
- Professional Fitting: We carefully fit the brace, making all necessary adjustments for comfort and effectiveness
- Education: We provide comprehensive instructions on application, adjustment, and care
- Follow-up Care: We schedule regular check-ups to assess fit as your child grows and their condition changes
Growing Up Active in Hickory, NC
Hickory offers countless opportunities for children to stay active year-round, which is why proper knee support and protection are so important for local families.
Outdoor Recreation for Kids
The Hickory area boasts numerous parks, trails, and recreational facilities perfect for active children:
- Hickory City Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, and open spaces for children to run and play
- Glenn C. Hilton Jr. Memorial Park features hiking trails, natural areas, and recreational facilities
- Jaycee Park provides baseball and soccer fields where many youth leagues practice and compete
- Henry Fork River Regional Recreation Park offers additional outdoor activity spaces
Youth Sports in Hickory
Our community takes pride in its robust youth sports programs, which is why we see many young athletes in our Hickory office:
- Hickory Youth Soccer Association
- Hickory Little League Baseball
- Basketball programs through the YMCA and local schools
- Youth football leagues throughout Catawba County
- Competitive gymnastics programs
- Youth swimming and tennis opportunities
Seasonal Activities
Hickory's four distinct seasons mean different activities—and different knee support needs—throughout the year:
- Spring: Baseball, softball, track and field, and soccer seasons peak
- Summer: Swimming, tennis, hiking, and camp activities keep kids moving
- Fall: Football, soccer, and cross-country running bring specific knee stress
- Winter: Basketball, wrestling, and indoor activities continue the active lifestyle
With so many opportunities for physical activity, it's no wonder Hickory parents prioritize proper knee protection and support for their children.
Common Pediatric Knee Conditions Treated in Our Hickory Office
At our Hickory location, we regularly provide bracing solutions for children with various knee conditions:
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease: A growth-related condition causing knee pain common in active adolescents
- Patellar Tracking Disorder: Improper movement of the kneecap within its groove
- Ligament Injuries: Including ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL sprains or tears
- Patellar Instability: Recurring kneecap dislocations or subluxations
- Growth Plate Injuries: Damage to the developing tissue near the ends of long bones
- Chondromalacia Patella: Softening of the cartilage beneath the kneecap
- Post-Surgical Support: Bracing following knee surgeries or arthroscopic procedures
- Juvenile Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions affecting the knee joint
- Congenital Knee Conditions: Various conditions present from birth that may benefit from bracing
Each condition requires specific bracing approaches, which our Hickory team is thoroughly trained to address.
Caring for Your Child's Knee Brace in Hickory's Climate
Hickory's seasonal climate presents specific challenges for knee brace maintenance:
- Humid Summers: Regular cleaning and drying are essential to prevent moisture buildup and skin irritation
- Fall Athletics: Additional attention to strap tension as children layer clothing for outdoor sports
- Winter Wear: Adjustments may be needed to accommodate thicker clothing layers
- Spring Activities: Transitioning back to lighter clothing requires brace readjustments
Our Hickory team provides season-specific care instructions to ensure your child's brace remains comfortable and effective year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Knee Braces
1. How do I know if my child needs a knee brace?
Only a healthcare provider can determine if your child needs a knee brace. Common indicators include persistent knee pain, instability when walking or running, swelling, limited range of motion, or a specific diagnosis from a physician. If your child's doctor recommends a knee brace, our Hickory team will work with you to find the optimal solution.
2. Will my insurance cover my child's knee brace?
Most medical insurance plans, including many Medicaid and Medicare plans, provide coverage for prescribed orthotic devices. Our Hickory office works with numerous insurance providers and has experienced staff who can verify your coverage and assist with the authorization process. We recommend contacting us directly to discuss your specific insurance situation.
3. How long will my child need to wear a knee brace?
The duration varies widely depending on the condition being treated. Some injuries require bracing for several weeks, while ongoing conditions might need longer-term support. Your child's healthcare provider will establish a treatment timeline, and our orthotists will schedule regular follow-ups to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
4. Can my child participate in sports while wearing a knee brace?
Many children can continue participating in sports while wearing a properly fitted knee brace. In fact, certain braces are specifically designed for athletic activities. Our Hickory orthotists will consider your child's specific sports and activities when recommending and fitting a brace, ensuring it provides adequate protection without unnecessarily limiting performance.
5. How often will my child need a new knee brace?
Growing children typically need brace adjustments or replacements more frequently than adults. During periods of rapid growth, some children may need a new brace every 6-12 months. Our follow-up appointments help determine when adjustments or replacements are necessary to maintain proper fit and function.
6. Does getting fitted for a knee brace hurt?
The fitting process is non-invasive and shouldn't cause pain. Our experienced Hickory pediatric specialists take careful measurements and ensure the brace fits properly without causing discomfort. We pay special attention to creating a positive, stress-free experience for children of all ages.
7. How should my child care for their knee brace?
Proper care extends the life of the brace and ensures optimal function. Generally, we recommend:
- Regular cleaning according to manufacturer guidelines
- Inspecting for signs of wear or damage
- Properly storing the brace when not in use
- Following specific care instructions provided during fitting
Our Hickory team provides detailed care instructions specific to your child's brace type and lifestyle.
Visit Our Hickory Location for Expert Pediatric Knee Brace Fitting
Our Hickory office provides comprehensive pediatric orthotic services in a comfortable, child-friendly environment. Located at 910 Tate Blvd SE, Suite 103, we're easily accessible for families throughout Catawba County and surrounding areas.
Schedule an Appointment
To arrange a consultation for your child's knee brace needs, contact our Hickory office:
- Phone: (828) 348-1960
- Contact us online
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 8am - noon, 1pm - 5pm
- Prescription: Please bring your physician's prescription if available
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your initial appointment at our Hickory location typically takes 45-60 minutes and includes:
- Review of your child's medical history and physician recommendations
- Physical assessment of your child's knee condition
- Discussion of treatment goals and activity needs
- Measurements and fitting (same-day fitting possible for many standard braces)
- Detailed instructions for use and care
- Scheduling of follow-up appointments
Why Hickory Families Trust Orthopedic Appliance Company
For over 60 years, Orthopedic Appliance Company has been a trusted provider of pediatric orthotic care in Western North Carolina. Our Hickory location continues this tradition of excellence with specialized expertise in children's knee bracing solutions.
We combine extensive clinical knowledge with a deep understanding of children's unique needs, ensuring that each young patient receives not just the right brace, but also the support, education, and ongoing care necessary for optimal outcomes.
Contact our Hickory office today to learn how we can help your child stay active, comfortable, and protected with the right knee brace solution.