August 10, 2026

Caring for a hinged knee brace

A hinged range-of-motion (ROM) brace is worn for extended periods during rehabilitation, so keeping it clean and correctly adjusted matters both for comfort and for how well it does its job.

Cleaning

Straps and padding should be checked against the manufacturer's care instructions — most can be wiped down or hand-washed, but the rigid hinge and frame components generally shouldn't be submerged. Let padding air-dry fully before the brace is worn again.

Checking the fit

A brace that has loosened over the course of a day, or that has shifted position, stops doing its job properly. Straps should be snug enough to keep the brace from rotating on the leg, without cutting off circulation. If marks, numbness, or persistent discomfort show up under the straps, that's a fit issue to raise with the prescribing clinician, not something to adjust by feel alone.

Checking the hinge

The ROM dials set the allowed range of motion and are usually set by a clinician, not the wearer. If a dial has slipped, or the hinge feels loose or catches during movement, that's worth flagging rather than continuing to use it as-is.

When to replace it

Cracked plastic, a hinge that no longer holds its set position, or straps that have lost their grip are signs the brace is past its useful life and should be replaced rather than repaired.

This article is general information and is not medical advice. For guidance on a specific brace or injury, consult a qualified clinician.