Orthotics - Below Knee Caliper for adults and children

Introduction

This leaflet is for people who have been provided with a below knee caliper by the Orthotics service. It will explain how you should care for your caliper and other important information about the Orthotics service.

We hope you find this information useful. If you require further information or you are unable to attend an appointment, please telephone the Orthotics department where the appointment has been made for you as soon as possible:

Bury, Rochdale or Oldham: 0161 778 2670
Email: nca.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

Salford: 0161 206 4912
Email: salford.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

For further information about our service, please visit:

www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/orthotics

Our sites are open for collection and dropping off devices:

Bury: Tuesdays only (closed 12-1pm for lunch)
Rochdale: Thursdays only (closed 12-1pm for lunch)
Oldham: Mondays only (closed 12-1pm for lunch)
Salford: Monday - Friday (closed 12-1pm for lunch)

What is a below knee caliper?

You have been supplied with a below knee caliper which is designed to control the ankle joint and foot when deformity and/or instability are present. The Orthotist has designed this device for your specific problem, so if you experience any changes in your limb or if you feel that the caliper provides inadequate control you must let the Orthotics department know as soon as possible.

What am I entitled to?

You are entitled to one below knee caliper (or pair if both legs are affected), you will only be given a second item or pair after inspection of your original caliper by the Orthotist and for the following reasons:

• If your original caliper is deemed to be clinically ineffective by the Orthotist
• If you are unable to function without it
• If your original caliper is beyond repair

How should I use the caliper?

• Fit the spurs of the caliper into the socket in your shoe, if there are additional leather straps, your orthotist will show you how to fit these
• Whilst seated on a bed or chair, place your leg in the device ensuring your foot is comfortably in your shoe. The calf band should sit behind your calf
• There may be additional straps around the ankle that the orthotist will demonstrate fitting
• Fasten all straps securely

Are there any safety precautions I should take?

• Ensure that spurs are correctly located in the sockets
• Check that straps are secure and remain secure when standing
• Regularly check your caliper for wear or damage

How should I care for my caliper?

• Spurs should be lubricated weekly with Vaseline to ensure they can move freely within the socket
• Keep the caliper away from direct sources of heat or cold and never immerse in water
• Any joints should be cleaned regularly using an old toothbrush or similar
• Look after the caliper and return it for repair when necessary. You should never attempt to modify or adjust the caliper yourself
• Ideally, the caliper should be serviced once per year. It is your responsibility to contact orthotics regarding this

What problems should I be aware of?

If you notice any of the following, please contact the Orthotics department as soon as possible.

• Skin redness that doesn’t fade after 15 minutes
• Sores or blisters on the skin
• Pain, irritation or rubbing
• Any damage to the caliper

Will the caliper affect footwear?

To accommodate the caliper, sockets and possibly leather straps will need to be added to your footwear.

Further appointments

Following the supply of your initial below knee caliper you will be reviewed at the discretion of the Orthotist. The follow-up procedure will also be explained to you. However, if you feel your condition has not improved, has worsened, or you are experiencing problems with your below knee caliper, you can ask to see the Orthotist for a review appointment, by telephoning the Orthotics department where you had your original appointment.