Patient Resources

Helpful Guides & Information About Our Adaptive Mobility Systems

NEED HELP?  We have clinical specialists on staff who will be happy to answer your questions or speak with your doctor. Please fill out our request form and we will arrange a time to speak with you.

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Which Solution Is Right For You?

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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 easker 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.
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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. If you want the best... Get re/aktiv™

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See PDE & Reaktiv braces in Action

(IMAGINE YOUR STORY HERE)

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After suffering for two decades, Andrew is running, jumping and walking again - without pain - that's transformative bracing.

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David Blair, 2016 Paralympic gold medal winner and world record holder in the F44 discus, knew the instant he donned his new Reaktiv / PDE Brace he had found a pain relieving alternative to surgery.

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Chasing an Olympic Dream. The Fabtech Systems ReAktiv / PDE brace keeps Keith in the game.

3 Reasons To Choose Fabtech

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Trusted & Proven

We've devoted 10s of thousands of hours to testing and proving our mobility systems, so we can help patients and clinicians get it right from the beginning.

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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.

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22 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.

We Are Here To Help

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PATIENT JOURNEY

A Guide To Getting A Reaktiv Brace

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When seeking a Reaktiv brace, know that it involves a process with multiple steps and people involved. Your healthcare team will guide and support you throughout. Here's an overview of the timeline for acquiring and using a Reaktiv brace.

Step 1

Consult Your Medical Provider & Obtain a Prescription (RX)

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

We are developing a help-guide for communicating with your doctor. SUBSCRIBE to our patient newsletter to receive an update when it's ready.

Step 1

Step 2

Find An Outside Clinical Provider

Use our Reaktiv provider guide to find a clinical provider that suits your needs.

Choose carefully! It’s important to choose the right clinic that makes your feel comfortable.

CLINIC SELECTION FAQ

Step 2

Step 3

Evaluation & Limb Casting

To begin the orthotic process, your orthotist will conduct an initial evaluation and casting appointment. They will assess your lower extremities, observe your walking or standing, and address any questions you have.

During the casting process, a cast of your affected leg will be taken to create a custom Reaktiv brace based on your leg shape.

Note: The cast is not permanent and will be removed once it hardens for fabrication.

Here's a patient-focused video of the casting process:

Step 3

Step 4

Authorization Process

After your initial evaluation with the orthotist, the orthotic clinic will proceed with submitting for insurance authorization. The specific procedure may vary for each clinic. For any questions regarding insurance or authorization, it is recommended to contact your individual clinic as they will have the most accurate information.

The duration of this process can vary significantly, ranging from a few days to a couple of  months. The timeframe depends on various factors such as the insurance company and physician involved

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:

  1. Fit Assessment: The clinician ensures a comfortable and secure fit of the Reaktiv device on your leg by making necessary adjustments.

  2. Function Evaluation: They evaluate how the Reaktiv brace functions while you stand and walk, ensuring it provides the needed support and function.

  3. Care and Usage Instructions: The clinician provides instructions on how to care for and wear the Reaktiv brace effectively.

  4. 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!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Your Brace

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.

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

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. 

From time to time, you may find clinics implementing the use of the PDE spring in brace designs that they market under different names.

To identify a Rektiv brace, look for the 're/aktiv' logo sticker on the cuff. 

Note: Starting September 1st, all Reaktiv braces will be embossed with a Reaktiv logo and serial ID number. 

Fundamentally these braces 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 are addressing pain management and they offload the patients weight. The only 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 which utilizes our PDE modular spring technology is not a copy of the IDEO or Exosym brace, it is a technology that was developed to address other issues primarily focused on technology access and medical reimbursement in the civilian non-military market. 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.

Fabtech’s initial response to the problem was one of engineered consistency, modularity, technology access, accessible to the medical industry and it needed to be covered by insurance companies by qualifying under industry standard billing codes.

Financial Considerations

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.

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.

Find a Clinic (Provider)

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?

Located on this list are clinics throughout the US that provide Reaktiv braces built by Fabtech in our Everett WA facility. These clinics have access to our clinical specialists, most up to date education, and meet our clinical standards when providing Reaktiv braces built with PDE technology.

Find A Clinic

The short answer is no. We are consistently working with our industry education programs to provide state of the art education to the Orthotic & Prosthetic industry. As we educate and certify more clinics, we get closer to our goal to providing universal access to this life changing technology.

 There is most probably a clinic near you.

 

Find A Clinic

We recommend our sister clinical care company Cornerstone Orthotics and Prosthetics, located in Everett WA run by David Hughes LCPO and founding partner of Fabtech Systems. Cornerstone O&P has fit thousands braces and is the clinical leader in this technology.

Located in Everett WA contact Cornerstone O&P here for more information:

https://www.cornerstonepo.com/

 

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Stay tuned to our website, we are working on teaming up with PT’s throughout the US and creating training video’s so you can do exercises at home.

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.

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.

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.

Contact your provider immediately. The good news is we have designed the Reaktiv/PDE brace designs to be easily serviced and parts can replace quickly and with lower costs then other brace designs.

We have clinical specialists on staff who will be happy to answer your questions or speak with your doctor. Please fill out our request form and we will arrange a time to speak with you.

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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.

Contact us or tag us online #reaktivbrace #pde #fabtechsystems

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