Most callipers are made from a leather band that fits around your calf and one or two metal struts that will attach into sockets fixed into the sole unit of your footwear.
You usually provide your own footwear.
What footwear is suitable for adaptation?
- A solid sole unit of more than 1” thick at the heel. Soles with air bubbles in cannot be adapted
- Strong and firm upper material
- A supportive fastening like lace or Velcro
- A wide heel
How do I put on the calliper and adapted footwear?
When putting on your calliper and adapted footwear it is normally easier to connect the calliper to the footwear first and put both on at the same time.
Fasten your shoe first, then any straps around your ankle. The ankle strap should be fastened so that the thinnest section of the strap is wrapped around the outside of the metal side strut as in the picture above.
The calf band should be fastened closely to make sure the device does not move on your leg, but not too tight that it is uncomfortable.
When should I wear my calliper and adapted footwear?
Your Orthotist will advise you when to wear your calliper. In most cases you will be advised that once you are used to it you should wear it whenever you are standing and walking.
It should not be worn at night.
How long will it take to get used to wearing the calliper?
You will need to take some time to get used to your calliper.
Suggested wear times:
- Day 1: 30 minutes
- Day 2: 1 hour
- Day 3: 1 to 2 hours
- Day 4: 2 hours
- Day 5 or more: continue increasing the time you wear the calliper by an hour each day until you can wear the calliper all day.
It is usual to have some mild red marking on white skin as you begin wearing in your calliper. This may not be noticeable on black or brown skin.
If marking is present 40 minutes after taking your calliper off, or you notice any symptoms that are getting worse, please stop wearing it and contact the orthotic department for a review.
Looking after your calliper and adapted footwear
It is your responsibility to look after your calliper and adapted footwear. You should:
- keep the uppers clean using a damp cloth or appropriate products
- drop them into the orthotics department for repairs and maintenance to Velcro, leather, sockets and spurs
- keep away from direct heat and pets
- not try to adapt the calliper or shoe yourself
- not let anyone else wear it as it is prescribed for your use only
What happens if I have a problem?
If you are concerned about the condition, fit or fitting of your calliper or if you require any further assistance, please contact:
Orthotic Department
Telephone: 01709 424385