Knee Immobilizer

Care instructions

A Knee Immobilizer (brace, splint) is used to help protect the knee and keep it straight after an injury or surgery.

How to use a knee immobilizer

Positioning:

• It’s best to wear the immobilizer under clothing. Using a compression sleeve or liner may feel more comfortable and reduce skin irritation.
• Sit or lie down with your knee straight. Do not bend or twist the knee at any time.
• Slide the immobilizer under your leg, lining up the opening with your kneecap. (If there is no opening follow the manufacturer’s directions to line up the brace).

Strapping:

• Start by tightening the straps right above and below your knee.
• Then adjust the other straps so they are even.
• Straps should be snug but allow space for one finger between the strap and your skin.

Check the fit:

• The brace should fit from just below your groin to above your ankle.
• It should not slide down or pinch your skin.

Taking off your knee immobilizer

Be sure to keep your knee straight. Do not bend or twist your knee.

• Undo all the straps.
• Fold the straps over so the Velcro does not stick to other parts of the immobilizer.
• Support your leg to keep your knee straight and gently slide out of the immobilizer.

Care at home

• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about how much weight you can put on your leg.
• Speak to your doctor about whether you can take the immobilizer off for bathing or showering. Until then:
  • take off the immobilizer while you are in bed with your leg supported
  • use a sponge or wash cloth with warm water and mild soap to gently wash your leg
• Check your leg every day for:
  • rashes or pressure spots
  • temperature changes
  • swelling that has gotten worse
  • pain

If these symptoms don’t get better, call your doctor or the Rehabilitation Advice Line.

• If your immobilizer gets dirty, clean it using a damp cloth and then let it air dry before you put it back on.

Talk with your doctor or Rehabilitation Advice line if you need support during your recovery.

To see this information online and learn more, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca/health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_knee_immobilizer_inst.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: November 13, 2025

Author: Physiotherapy, Allied Health Professions

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.