FAQs
What knee injuries is the Ossur CTi3 Ligament Knee Brace designed for?
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The CTi3 provides functional support for ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL injuries, rotary instabilities, and combined multi-ligament knee injuries. It is designed for active patients and athletes returning to sport after ligament injury or surgical reconstruction.
How does the Accutrac hinge on the CTi3 differ from standard knee brace hinges?
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The Accutrac is a polycentric hinge designed from analysis of thousands of leg molds to mimic the knee's natural rolling and gliding motion. Standard single-axis hinges pivot at a fixed point, which can cause the brace to shift during movement. The Accutrac tracks more accurately through the full range of motion.
How do I measure for the correct CTi3 knee brace size?
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The most accurate method is knee width -- measure straight across the widest point of your kneecap, side to side, while standing (S: 3.5-4 in., M: 3.9-4.5 in., L: 4.4-5 in., XL: 4.9-5.5 in.). If you cannot do that measurement, use below-knee circumference by wrapping a tape measure just below the kneecap (S: 11-13.4 in., M: 13.4-15 in., L: 15-16.1 in., XL: 16.1-17.3 in.). Thigh circumference 8 inches above the kneecap is a tiebreaker if you fall between sizes. Brace Direct also offers free virtual fitting sessions to help you confirm your size.
Is the Ossur CTi3 better than the Rebound Dual for ACL reconstruction recovery?
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Both are functional ligament braces, but they serve different needs. The CTi3 uses a lightweight carbon composite frame that is water-friendly, making it ideal for athletes in high-demand sports. The Rebound Dual uses a cold-malleable aluminum frame that clinicians can contour by hand, offering more customization for complex leg shapes.
Can I wear the CTi3 knee brace in water or during water sports?
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Yes. All CTi3 materials -- the carbon composite frame, liners, straps, and padding -- are water-friendly. You can wear it during water sports, in wet conditions, and wash it down after use. This also makes it practical for wearing over wetsuits during activities like wakeboarding and water skiing.
How do the interchangeable ROM stops work on the CTi3 knee brace?
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The CTi3 uses snap-in ROM stops that require no tools to install or swap. Extension stops are available at 0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 degrees. Flexion stops come in 0, 60, 75, and 90 degrees. Your clinician selects the appropriate stops based on your stage of rehabilitation.
Is the Ossur CTi3 covered by insurance, FSA, or HSA?
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The CTi3 is PDAC approved under HCPCS codes L1845 and L1852, meeting Medicare standards for a prefabricated double upright knee orthosis. It qualifies as an eligible expense under FSA and HSA accounts. Contact your insurance provider for details on your specific plan's coverage. Brace Direct does not work with insurance companies.
What is the impact guard set and do I need it for motocross?
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The impact guard set is a separate accessory that adds external padding over the CTi3 frame to protect the knee from direct blows. It is recommended for motocross, mountain biking, and contact sports where the knee is exposed to impact. An MX kit is also available with additional motocross-specific components.
What does the optional PCL strap kit do for the CTi3 brace?
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The PCL strap kit adds a posterior-directed force on the tibia to help control backward sag -- the primary instability pattern in PCL-deficient knees. It is sold separately and recommended for patients with confirmed PCL injuries or post-PCL reconstruction. It attaches to the existing frame without modification.