The TayCo Acute XAB Brace – or it’s non-prescription alternative, the RecoverX Brace – is considered better than the DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) in certain cases due to several key factors:
Custom Fit vs. Standard Fit
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: It is custom fitted, designed to work with your specific foot anatomy and needs. This allows for a more personalized fit, offering enhanced support where needed.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: It is typically a standardized, off-the-shelf product that uses air cells to support the arch, which can be less precise in its fit comparatively.
Support and Stability
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: Provides more robust support by working with the shoe to encompass both the ankle and foot, offering strong control over pronation (the inward rolling of the foot) while still allowing some mobility. Using a good orthotic within the shoe can prevent collapse of the arch, which is key for managing PTTD.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: While it provides decent arch support, it mainly relies on an air bladder for stability, which can be less durable over time. The support may also vary depending on how tightly the air cells are inflated.
Comfort
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: Many people find outside-the-shoe braces more comfortable, especially for those with wider feet or sensitive skin.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: Since it fits inside a shoe, it may create extra pressure and/or make your shoe fit too tightly. Additionally, it may cause rubbing or skin irritation.
Long-Term Durability
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: Typically more durable since it’s built for long-term wear with strong materials designed for heavy use.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: While effective in the short term, its air bladders may wear out faster, especially with regular daily use.
Activity Level
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: Is often preferred for more active individuals because it provides stronger, all-around support that allows for more dynamic movement while protecting the posterior tibial tendon.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: Suitable for less intense activities, as the air bladder may not provide sufficient support for high-impact activities.
Immobilization vs. Flexibility
- TayCo Acute XAB Brace: Balances between immobilizing the foot to prevent overpronation and allowing flexibility for daily movements.
- DJO Aircast Airlift PTTD Brace: Offers more flexibility but at the cost of less rigid immobilization, which may not provide as much relief for more severe PTTD cases.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the severity of the PTTD, activity level, and the need for a custom-fit vs. off-the-shelf solution. The TayCo Acute XAB Brace – or it’s non-prescription alternative, the RecoverX Brace – might be better for those who require long-term, robust support, while the DJO Aircast Airlift might suffice for short-term use.
