Patient Resources

Helpful information about our adaptive mobility systems

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NEED HELP?

Our clinical specialists are happy to answer your questions or speak with your doctor.

Fill out our request form to schedule a call.

Which Solution Is Right For You?

BUILT BY YOUR PROVIDER (CLINIC)

Dynamic, energy releasing PDE composite springs store energy during the gait cycle and return that energy at push-off.

Our modular solutions makes it easier to resolve hard-to-treat ankle and foot conditions.

Comfortably complete daily tasks like grocery shopping and walking to the mailbox.
Keep up with your kids or grandkids.
Get back to weekend hikes with friends or family.
Participate in extreme sports.
Simply enjoy what you love again.

BUILT BY FABTECH USING PDE™

The Most Comfortable, Adaptable Brace On The Market!

This life-changing brace (built with PDE™) is adjustable and easily tuned to meet your specific daily needs and changing conditions.

Every Re/aktiv™ brace is made-to-fit in our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility by Fabtech’s expert technicians and fabricators.

We follow a standardized and systematic process with rigid guidelines to provide unparalleled craftsmanship.

See PDE & Reaktiv braces in Action

(IMAGINE YOUR STORY HERE)

Play Video

After two decades of pain, Andrew is running, jumping, and walking again — pain-free. That’s the power of transformative bracing.

Play Video

David Blair, 2016 Paralympic gold medalist and F44 discus world record holder, knew the moment he tried on his new ReAktiv™ brace built with PDE that he’d found a pain-relieving alternative to surgery.

Play Video

Chasing an Olympic dream — the Fabtech Systems ReAktiv/PDE brace helps Keith stay in the game.

3 Reasons To Choose Fabtech

Trusted & Proven

We’ve invested tens of thousands of hours testing and perfecting our mobility systems to ensure patients and clinicians achieve the right results from the start.

25 years changing lives

Thousands of people across America have been using our Re/Aktiv braces and PDE Springs technology to relieve pain, improve mobility, and get back to life for over 2 decades.

Unrivaled innovation

You get access to solutions recognized industry-wide as the best and most innovative. Our team has deep roots in our industry and uses our products too.

We Are Here To Help

PATIENT JOURNEY

Guide To Getting A Re/Aktiv™ Brace

Getting a Re/Aktiv™ brace involves several steps and people. Your healthcare team will guide you through the process. Here’s an overview of the timeline.

Step 1

Consult Your Medical Provider & Obtain a Prescription (RX)

Your specialist or doctor will complete a lower extremity evaluation and authorize or prescribe a Re/Aktiv brace.

Step 1

Step 2

Find An Outside Clinical Provider

Use our Re/aktiv™ Provider Guide to find a clinical provider that best fits your needs.

Choose thoughtfully — it’s important to select a clinic where you feel comfortable and supported.

View our Clinic Selection FAQ to learn what to consider when choosing the right provider for you.

Step 2

Step 3

Evaluation & Limb Casting

To begin the orthotic process, your orthotist will conduct an initial evaluation and casting appointment, assessing your lower extremities, observing your walking or standing, and answering any questions you have.

During casting, a cast of your affected leg is taken to create a custom Re/Aktiv™ brace tailored to your leg shape.

Note: The cast is temporary and will be removed once it hardens for fabrication.

View our patient-focused video of the casting process

Step 3

Step 4

Authorization Process

After your initial evaluation, the orthotic clinic will submit for insurance authorization — though the exact process may vary by clinic.

For questions about insurance or authorization, contact your clinic directly, as they will have the most accurate details.

Processing times can vary, taking anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on your insurance company and physician.

Step 4

Step 5

Fabtech Builds Your Reaktiv Brace

Our highly skilled fabrication engineers at our advanced manufacturing facility construct your brace with meticulous precision and attention to detail. They follow the specifications from your initial evaluation and casting, ensuring a perfect fit and alignment with your anatomy.

Throughout the process, we maintain stringent quality control measures to deliver a brace that meets the highest standards of strength, durability, and functionality. Rest assured, your brace is crafted with expertise and care to enhance your mobility and overall well-being.

Step 5

Step 6

Delivery & Fitting

Here are the steps followed by the orthotics clinician to ensure a successful orthotic process with the Reaktiv device:

Fit Assessment: The clinician ensures a comfortable and secure fit of the Reaktiv device on your leg by making necessary adjustments.
Function Evaluation: They evaluate how the Reaktiv brace functions while you stand and walk, ensuring it provides the needed support and function.
Care and Usage Instructions: The clinician provides instructions on how to care for and wear the Reaktiv brace effectively.
Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up appointment is scheduled to address any concerns, assess progress, and make further adjustments if needed.

The clinician's main focus is your satisfaction and well-being throughout the process, providing comprehensive care and guidance for a successful orthotic experience with the Reaktiv device.

Step 6

Step 7

Enjoy Your New Found Mobility!

Step 7

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Your Brace

What is PDE modular engineered spring technology and why is it different?

Posterior Dynamic Element (PDE) is our engineered modular spring technology that is used in dynamic neuromuscular and orthopedic offloading brace designs like the Reaktiv, IDEO and Exosym.

This technology is the first “engineered” modular composite technology to be integrated into Orthotics specifically for custom “bespoke” devices made to the patient. The benefit of the technology is its modularity, consistency of flexural performance and expandability in the brace life cycle. Other brace technologies in this space are “monolithic” in design, non-adjustable, hard to repair and costly to support over time. Braces built with PDE technology are the only braces in this space that can change with the patient as they change.

What is a Reaktiv Brace?

Exclusively manufactured by Fabtech Systems in our Everett WA facility, the Reaktiv AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) Brace for orthopedic conditions is a heavy duty and higher impact orthotic solution that utilizes PDE engineered spring technology. Immobilizing the ankle and or the foot, and generally addressing pain management by offloading the patient’s weight.

The modular design allows for precise "tuning" throughout the episode of care regarding flexibility/range of motion, energy return, alignment, volume fluctuation, and more. Additionally, a fully rigid footplate helps to control and support the anatomical architectures during weightbearing and stance, while extending the functional lever arm to the toes allows for improved kinematic and biomechanical function/safety.

Download the Reaktiv brace PRODUCT INFOSHEET

What are the differences between a Fabtech manufactured “Reaktiv” brace and brace built by a clinic with PDE spring technology?

Fabtech is consistently working within our industry education programs to provide state of the art education to the Orthotic & Prosthetic industry. Many clinics can fabricate and deliver a brace they built in-house. These braces would be described as a “Brace built with PDE technology”. They would not be a Fabtech branded “Reaktiv Brace” as they were not manufactured by our facility. We supply PDE spring technology all over the world, you may come across many examples of braces that look like the Reaktiv braces online but have different names. The key thing to remember is that Reaktiv braces built by Fabtech, follow a consistent design type, are branded as a Reaktiv brace, serialized, and are made in our ISO Everett, WA facility following our stringent quality guidelines. Each device is unique and is made to fit you and only you.

What is the difference between the Reaktiv Brace and the Exosym/IDEO brace?

Fundamentally these two brace designs provide the same thing. These designs emerged from answering the same problems set of complicated injury or trauma to the ankle, and foot, they just diverged on how to best address the issue. They all immobilize the ankle and or the foot, generally addressing pain management and they offload the patient’s weight. Key differences are in professional interpretations of the footplate, cuff, and other design features. All are very successful devices when produced and delivered by qualified professionals.

The ReAktiv brace is a modular, engineered spring technology unlike the IDEO/Exosym which is non-adjustable and made from open market carbon rods. The ReAktiv brace using PDE spring technology was developed to address other issues primarily focused on technology access and medical reimbursement in the civilian non-military market. However, over time the PDE engineered spring system became a standard issue choice in brace design at the Center for the Intrepid (BMAC) due to superior adjustability, modularity and engineered spring performance. The IDEO/Exosym (Hanger, WA) for a time was a military-only design that had and continues to have limited accessibility with higher costs and for many years was not reimbursed by insurance companies.

The ReAktiv brace is covered by most insurance companies by qualifying under industry standard billing codes

Is the PDE a copy of the IDEO/Exosym?

The Reaktiv brace which utilizes the PDE modular spring technology is not a copy of the IDEO or Exosym brace, in fact the PDE engineered spring technology was first developed in 2004 and was in use during the same period as the IDEO program.

Beginning in 2015 Fabtech Systems PDE development team began working closely with John Fergason, Chief Prosthetist at the Center for the Intrepid (BAMC) and others on the IDEO team developing creative solutions for the military. To this day, Fabtech Systems development team continues to work with members of the original IDEO research team on multiple research grants progressing the development of the PDE program whereas the IDEO research program has been canceled. Fabtech continues to support the Center for the Intrepid (BAMC), and Walter Reed Medical Hospital.

In 2013 Hanger Orthopedic group acquired rights to the IDEO design, rebranded IDEO to Exosym and hired Ryan Blanck to run an office in Gig Harbor WA.

Fabtech continues to be the only manufacturer who is trained and approved to build IDEO designed braces for the Veterans Administration.

Financial Considerations

How much does a Reaktiv or brace built with PDE Technology cost?

Unfortunately, there are many factors that affect the end cost of a brace to the patient. The insurance coverage, private or Medicare as examples and the insurance region you are in can be big factors. Other items that can influence costs are the brace design, Orthotic & Prosthetic devices are billed based on allowable billable features; some designs have different features than other designs based on what condition is being treated.

As with other areas of healthcare, if you are a cash paying customer, you can negotiate with the clinic provider to some degree.

Are Reaktiv or Braces built with PDE Technology covered by insurance?

Yes, Reaktiv braces and braces using our PDE technology are covered by common medical industry L Codes. L Codes are the codes used by the Orthotic & Prosthetic industry to be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.

Depending on your insurance coverage, type of coverage and the organization providing the coverage you may experience different degrees of coverage for the services provided.

Note: Proper L-codes are the responsibility of your care provider.

I don’t have insurance and can’t afford a brace; how can I get it covered?

The Orthotic and Prosthetic community has many organizations that offer support to mobility-impaired communities.

Also explore your local non-profit groups and community church groups, as they may have programs or offer financial help.

https://www.amputee-coalition.org/resources/prosthetic-limb-donations/

https://www.traumasurvivorsnetwork.org/pages/home

https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local.html

https://www.nationalmssociety.org

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/topics

https://diabetes.org/community/local-offices

https://www.sepsis.org

Veterans Resources

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org

https://www.va.gov

https://angelwingsforveterans.org

https://independencefund.org

https://t2t.org

Find a Clinic (Provider)

How to choose a provider for a brace built utilizing PDE spring technology.

We are consistently working with our industry education program to provide state of the art education to the Orthotic & Prosthetic industry. Many clinics can fabricate and deliver a brace they built in-house. These braces would be described as a “Brace built with PDE technology”. they would not be a Fabtech branded “Reaktiv Brace” as they were not manufactured at our facility. We supply PDE spring technology all over the world, you will come across many examples of braces that look like the Reaktiv braces online, but have different names. The key thing to remember is that Reaktiv braces built by Fabtech, follow a consistent design type, are branded as a Reaktiv brace, serialized and are made in our ISO Everett, WA facility following our stringent quality guidelines.

Do your research

Orthopedic braces built with PDE spring technology are braces built for immobilizing the ankle and or the foot and generally addressing pain management. These are complicated devices as they can be defined as a ‘ProsthOsis”, meaning they are a cross between a Prosthetic and Orthotic device. Simply speaking the design “off loads weight” which adds complexity to the design. Ample research is recommended when looking for providers and a clinic who can display experience and a success history in providing braces of this type.

First and foremost, BE AN ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF, if your doctor gave you a script to a local clinic, you do not have to use that clinic, you have the right to find the best fit for yourself!

When interviewing clinics, ask a lot of questions. Your best results will be with a provider who has lots of experience with this type of technology. Think of it as if you were getting major work done on your house. You would want a contractor with the most experience not a contractor with no experience.

Situations sometimes may leave you with limited choice. If your current provider does not have experience, we recommend you ask them to have Fabtech manufacture your device, due to the complexity for best results.

Examples of questions:

How many devices of this type have they delivered?
Can you speak with a couple of patients’ they have provided these devices to?
Do they fabricate the brace in house with their own technical team?
Will they send the device to Fabtech?
What is their warranty?

How to choose a provider for a Reaktiv brace built by Fabtech, utilizing PDE spring technology.

Do I have to travel out of state to get a Reaktiv brace?

I have the ability to travel and want to see a specialist, who do you recommend?

How do I know if I am a candidate for a Reaktiv brace?

If you have considered amputation or wondered if you would ever get back to your life as it once was Reaktiv may be the solution you have been looking for. Reaktiv Braces were designed to address, limb salvage surgery, severe lower limb injuries and many types of conditions with serious pain.

Make an appointment with your doctor and clinical provider for a professional evaluation to see if Reaktiv Braces will work for you.

CLINICAL INDICATIONS

It is important to understand that the Reaktiv device is a fully custom device built based on your own limb shape and clinical presentation. The following is a list of conditions with specific indications for success through use of a Reaktiv device. It is impossible to create a comprehensive list of indications as everyone's physical needs and goals are entirely unique.

Talus fractures
Tibial fractures
Foot and ankle crush injuries
Post ankle fusion pain
Calcaneal fractures
Posterior tibial nerve injuries
Peroneal nerve injuries
Soft tissue injury or loss
Ankle and foot arthritis post fracture/injury
Partial foot amputations
Nerve/muscle loss below knee
Dorsiflexion and/or plantarflexion deficit or loss of
CVA
Wound care
Post ankle replacement pain or need for protection
MS
Charcot Marie Tooth disease
Weak dorsiflexion
Peroneal palsy
Complex fractures
Achilles Tendon treatment
Patients that desire to run or return to recreational sports
Chronic untreatable foot or ankle pain

Did You Know?

Following-up with your clinical provider is the key to your long-term success with your orthotic device

Along with re-evaluating it for proper fit and function, regular follow up allows you’re provider to re-assess your treatment goals.
Are you able to meet the challenges you set out for yourself? Are you ready to take on new ones? Stay in contact with your provider and check in on a regular basis. If something is not right, make an appointment and solve the issue.

Usage & Maintenance

Do I Have To Wear An Undersleeve Or Sock With My Device?

Yes, some type of interface must be worn between your skin and the orthosis. A cotton type sock or knee undersleeve is preferred. Nylon may suffice, but provides less padding and absorption of perspiration. Keeping the skin clean and dry is important for comfort and hygiene.

We recommend BraceSox™ as they are designed specifically for orthotics: https://www.bracesox.com/how-to-wear-bracesox.htm

My Brace Included A Bracesox Undersleeve. How Do I Use It?

The BRACESOX™ is designed to be worn as a protective interface between your skin and your PDE brace. It helps wick moisture, reduces friction, and keeps your skin cleaner and more comfortable throughout the day.

To wear it properly:

Turn it inside-out so the seam is on the outside, leaving the smooth surface against your skin. This helps prevent irritation.
Pull it up the leg, partway up your thigh.
Apply your PDE brace over the BRACESOX™.
Fold the top of the BRACESOX™ down over the top of the brace—this helps keep both in place and protects your unbraced leg from rubbing.

Care Instructions:
Machine wash cold and either hang dry or tumble dry on low. Keep your BRACESOX™ clean to help maintain skin health.

What Type Of Shoe Will I Need?

Do not use your device without a shoe! Due to the slickness of the carbon, wearing the orthosis without a shoe is dangerous. An athletic or oxford type shoe works best. The shoe must have a tongue, with a lace or Velcro closure across your instep to hold your foot within the device. Your orthosis was designed for a specific heel rise determined during the appointment and must be worn with a shoe. Changing the heel height of the shoe can affect the function and stability provided. Be cautious about using the device in different shoes. You may need to obtain a wider shoe, have your existing shoe stretched, or have the insole removed to allow adequate room for the device. Most orthotic devices are not for sleeping purposes, please do not sleep with the device on, unless specifically instructed to do so.

http://www.oddshoe.org/index.php

https://www.hoka.com/en/us/orthopedic-shoes/

https://www.zappos.com/e/adaptive/singleshoes-faq

https://www.skechers.com

How Do I Know If It Fits Correctly?

INSPECT YOUR SKIN! A properly fitting orthotic device should not cause sharp or stabbing pain, nor should it create bruises, calluses, or blisters. You should initially begin use of the orthosis on a gradual basis. By checking your skin frequently at first, pay closer attention to the areas along the edges of the carbon, along your arch and ankles. Redness that does not fade within 10-15 minutes after removing the device can be a sign of excessive pressure, especially if over bony anatomy. If redness, pain or swelling develops, please discontinue use immediately and contact your orthotist. Failure to do so could lead to open sores, infection, or other complications.

Cleaning And Maintenance

Most orthotic devices can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water using a cloth. Rubbing alcohol may be used for disinfection. The device should be towel dried and allowed to thoroughly air dry. Keep the brace away from excessive heat to prevent damage to the device. If the screws begin to come loose or the string begins to fray and needs to be replaced, please contact your orthotist. Do not attempt to modify your own device. Doing this will void the warranty. Inspect your device daily for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracking or loose parts. A yearly recheck is advised.

Will I get any Physical Therapy training when I receive my PDE brace?

We have a big goal to provide universal access to this bracing technology, however one shortcoming within our industry is there is a lack of Physical Therapy accompanying the delivery of Prosthetic and Orthotic devices. You will probably not receive Physical Therapy as part of the delivery of your device. However, we are working hard to be able to provide the needed information to a Physical Therapist of your choice so they can get you back to your best self as soon as possible.

Where can I get PT training for my PDE brace?

Can I run in my Reaktiv/PDE brace?

Yes, you can run in your Reaktiv, or brace built PDE. We have many patients who are successfully running daily in their braces and even many professional athletes. Please remember, as a user of an Orthopedic device designed to treat a serious problem there will be adjustments, fitment considerations and proper training are recommended to get you running again.

Fabtech has a clinical specialist on staff who can work with your provider to better help you get back to running.

What is the warranty of my Reaktiv Brace?

Your experience with us is important. A Reaktiv brace provided by Fabtech comes with the best warranty on the market. We offer a three (3) year warranty on the PDE spring, and a discounted cost replacement program for a broken foot plate or cuff that are within the warranty dates.

Braces provided and manufactured by other providers (not Fabtech Systems) using our PDE spring technology, offer a 6 month warranty on the spring and parts.

Note: Warranty is always provided by your clinic provider.

How long will my brace last?

This is a very challenging question to answer as there are many variables at play. Are you running miles a day, or just walking to the car? Because of the forces generated and translated through the brace and its carbon structure, it will fatigue overtime. The foot plates are generally the first area to show failure because of the forces applied to it. Just like a car or bicycle these braces do need maintenance and repair from time to time. However, we consistently see braces lasting for well over three years or more.

Rule of thumb is, if you are super active you should have the brace looked at more often than if you are just a community ambulator.

What do I do if my brace has a failure?

Does Fabtech have a specialist who can answer my questions?

Tell Us Your Story

Have you experienced the positive benefits of a Reaktiv brace? Tell us your story! We would love to help spread the word and make more possible for people with mobility challenges.

Or contact us directly to receive a special gift!

David Carstens, Limb Lab

“One of my patients is an Iraqi veteran that lost one of his extremities. Because of Fabtech's Reaktiv Brace, he's running half marathons with his buddies that were in the war with him. It's giving them a better quality of life.”

Sue Spalding, Clinical UW Medical

“The Fabtech team is very responsive. It's really, really awesome. And they're very generous with their time."

David Carstens, Limb Lab

“It makes me feel comfortable that I can put my patient's trust into somebody else. Scott and John have been great to work with. I can't give them enough praise in their profession, and they're always laughing and smiling.”

“It makes me feel comfortable that I can put my patient's trust into somebody else. Scott and John have been great to work with. I can't give them enough praise in their profession, and they're always laughing and smiling.”

Patient Resources

NEED HELP?

Which Solution Is Right For You?

BUILT BY YOUR PROVIDER (CLINIC)

BUILT BY FABTECH USING PDE™

See PDE & Reaktiv braces in Action

(IMAGINE YOUR STORY HERE)

3 Reasons To Choose Fabtech

Trusted & Proven

25 years changing lives

Unrivaled innovation

We Are Here To Help

PATIENT JOURNEY

Guide To Getting A Re/Aktiv™ Brace

Consult Your Medical Provider & Obtain a Prescription (RX)

Find An Outside Clinical Provider

Evaluation & Limb Casting

Authorization Process

Fabtech Builds Your Reaktiv Brace

Delivery & Fitting

Enjoy Your New Found Mobility!

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Your Brace

What is PDE modular engineered spring technology and why is it different?

What is a Reaktiv Brace?

What are the differences between a Fabtech manufactured “Reaktiv” brace and brace built by a clinic with PDE spring technology?

What is the difference between the Reaktiv Brace and the Exosym/IDEO brace?

Is the PDE a copy of the IDEO/Exosym?

Financial Considerations

How much does a Reaktiv or brace built with PDE Technology cost?

Are Reaktiv or Braces built with PDE Technology covered by insurance?

I don’t have insurance and can’t afford a brace; how can I get it covered?

Find a Clinic (Provider)

How to choose a provider for a brace built utilizing PDE spring technology.

How to choose a provider for a Reaktiv brace built by Fabtech, utilizing PDE spring technology.

Do I have to travel out of state to get a Reaktiv brace?

I have the ability to travel and want to see a specialist, who do you recommend?

How do I know if I am a candidate for a Reaktiv brace?

Did You Know?

Usage & Maintenance

Do I Have To Wear An Undersleeve Or Sock With My Device?

My Brace Included A Bracesox Undersleeve. How Do I Use It?

What Type Of Shoe Will I Need?

How Do I Know If It Fits Correctly?

Cleaning And Maintenance

Will I get any Physical Therapy training when I receive my PDE brace?

Where can I get PT training for my PDE brace?

Can I run in my Reaktiv/PDE brace?

What is the warranty of my Reaktiv Brace?

How long will my brace last?

What do I do if my brace has a failure?

Does Fabtech have a specialist who can answer my questions?

Tell Us Your Story

DISCOVER HOW WE ARE

MAKING MORE POSSIBLE

David Carstens, Limb Lab

Sue Spalding, Clinical UW Medical

David Carstens, Limb Lab

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