Dog Biko Physio Brace

In 2004 the Biko Canine Physio Brace was invented by Thomas.

His German Shepherd Biko had Degenerative Myelopathy, so his movement was getting progressively worse. After studying his dog's decline the first prototype was created to assist his dog with his illness. This greatly assisted in slowing down the deterioration of Biko's health.

The veterinarian, Dr. Markus Kasper, was enthused about the progress of Biko, and the Canine Physio Brace applied for a patent. After clinical testing of 8 patients at the Tierklinik Aspern, under the direction of Dr. Markus Kasper, the Biko Canine Physio Brace (Hundeexpander in German) was made marketable.

From that time on more than 2,500 patients worldwide have reaped the benefits that the Biko brace offers its patients.

What is the Biko Brace?

The Biko Brace is an assistive device designed to modify, improve and enhance the gait of patients with impairments such as lack of proprioception and ataxia due to neurological disease.

The Biko Brace features a simple-to-use, adjustable, custom-fitted device that works with standard harnesses for optimum comfort. Biko encourages appropriate limb use, decreases scuffing of the toes and assists with weight shifting during ambulation.

How is the Biko Brace used?

The brace is not a supportive device, but an assistive aid. It's utilized during the time that the dog is ambulatory and it helps them move more efficiently as a unit. The brace requires a standard roman harness with a D ring.

Is your patient a candidate for the Biko Brace?

• Patients must have motor function in all four limbs
• Patients who are ambulatory in the presence of mild or moderate ataxia
• Patients with degenerative myelopathy who are ambulatory
• Patients with degenerative disc disease who are ambulatory
• Post-operative patients who have recovered motor function and display residual impairments affecting their proprioception and balance

Patients who are NOT candidates:

• Patients who are paralysed
• Patients with no motor function in one or more limbs
• Patients with severe weakness and ataxia that require that they be physically moved and lifted to stand or walk
• Patients with severe spasm or increased tone in one or both hind limbs that severely interfere with their movement
• Exceptions: In some instances, the BIKO may be appropriate for certain orthopaedic cases. This should be determined by the veterinarian.
• Please call us on 01730 622 544 if you have any questions about this brace.