Leg Braces:
Stifle/Tarsus/Carpus.

The Stifle, Tarsus, and Carpus braces are cornerstone products in the OrthoPets lineup, each designed to provide functional, custom-fit support for canine patients recovering from orthopedic injuries.

Each brace was designed to be customized for the individual patient, based on precise limb impressions and measurements. This patient-specific workflow allowed for optimized joint alignment, proper load distribution, and a comfortable fit that supported both mobility and recovery.

For: Rear-limb injuries such as cruciate ligament tears (ACL/CCL), fractures, and post-surgical rehabilitation

The Stifle Brace supports the rear leg, stabilizing the stifle (knee) joint to help restore proper alignment and function. Each design begins with a patient-specific limb impression and is tailored to the animal’s exact anatomy.

3D models were designed to ensure clean hinge placement and proper shell thickness for vacuum forming. The Stifle’s form was optimized to provide both lateral and rotational support while maintaining the dog’s natural gait and flexibility

Stifle Brace

For: Achilles tendon injuries, tarsal and metatarsal fractures, and lower rear-limb rehabilitation.

The Tarsus Brace was developed to stabilize the ankle joint and surrounding structures. My work focused on adjusting shell proportions and hinge geometry to improve mobility and strength. Each Tarsus design was custom-modeled to match the patient’s limb contours, with clearance added for critical components and straps used during assembly.

The brace’s design ensures even pressure distribution across the limb, minimizing stress points while promoting balanced recovery.

Tarsus Brace

For: Forelimb injuries involving the antebrachiocarpal, middle carpal, or carpometacarpal joints; also used for luxations and fractures.

The Carpus Brace provides targeted stabilization for front-leg injuries, balancing support and flexibility to allow controlled motion during rehabilitation. I refined the CAD geometry and shell boundaries to accommodate the variety of wrist and forelimb shapes encountered in clinical use.

This model required special attention to component spacing and hinge alignment, ensuring smooth motion while maintaining the strength needed for active canine patients.

Carpus Brace

Design & Fabrication Process

Patient Impression & Measurement: Each brace began with a detailed mold and measurement session, capturing limb geometry for accurate digital modeling.

  • 3D Modeling & Verification: I modeled each brace digitally, ensuring proper tolerances for critical anatomy and preparing files for CNC milling.

  • Foam Carving: The CNC router carved the model from foam to confirm dimensions and fit before vacuum forming.

  • Vacuum Forming & Assembly: The plastic shell was vacuum-formed over the foam model, trimmed, and assembled with hardware and foam.

Finished Devices

This gallery showcases completed Stifle, Tarsus, and Carpus braces, along with patient photos demonstrating fit and function. Each device reflects OrthoPets’ focus on comfort, durability, and anatomical precision.