The following information grew out of our members' question: “Does anyone know of a company that makes comfortable kidney guards?” We have gathered a list of some of the options out there. Before you start, make sure you know the exact location of the new kidney. Transplanted kidneys are placed in the lower abdomen, and while they are usually on the right side, positioning can vary.

Your nephrology team is a great place to start. Most transplant teams have medical device companies they work with. Please be aware that some products sold online called kidney guards/shields/protectors are made to protect the native kidneys and designed to be worn with the padding on the back instead of the lower abdomen. It may or may not work to turn them around and adjust them.

Below is a list of kidney shields/guards that we know of. If you do not see your kidney guard on our list and want us to add it, please email us at: communityiroc@gmail.com. Always consult your transplant physicians if you have any questions about kidney protection.

Q: Why should one be worn?

To protect the transplanted kidney from impact that might damage it.

Q: How do I get one?

Various companies offer them (see below), or they can be custom-made at your hospital. Ask your nephrology team!

Q: Can wearing one be less annoying?

Hmmmm….great question! We’re working on that.

Zoombang Mail Order

You purchase an Under Armour type compression garment, and you or your doctor mark/outline the area that needs protection. Zoombang will customize a pad, adhere it to the garment, and then ship it back to you. The cost is $125 plus shipping. They say it usually takes about a week.

Pros: Soft fabric/wicking shirt (you must purchase yourself) with plastic padding added to the area that needs protection. Fairly affordable.

Cons: We are unsure how protective it would be against heavy impact to the kidney. A little limiting since the guard can not be removed and put on another shirt. They suggest hand-washing the garment to make it last longer.

Contact: 877-966-6264
www.zoombang.com

Pitch Guard

This product is made to protect native kidneys, not transplanted ones, but we think it could be adjusted to do the job. Ask your doctor if you are unsure.

Pros: Very affordable. Looks fairly comfortable as well.

Cons: We are unsure how protective it would be against heavy impact to the kidney.  Made to protect the back and would need to be adjusted to cover the transplant area.   

Contact:  615-583-9894, support@pitchguard.com
pitchguard.com

Hanger Clinic

Custom made. Located inside Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. Hanger has locations across the country, but not all make pediatric kidney guards.

Pros: Very protective.

Cons: Hard, plastic molded to the body and then secured with velcro, must wear an undershirt.

Contact: 877-442-6437
hangerclinic.com

Seattle Children’s Hospital

Custom-made at their main campus only; requires prescription.

Pros: Neoprene belt, stretchy, velcro on either end, velcro pocket with molded plastic inside; can be worn under clothing.

Cons: Black color = hot in the summer, color makes it easily lost, belt size necessitates larger shield with growth.

Contact: Seattle Children’s Occupational Therapy
More information: https://www.seattlechildrens.org/pdf/PE1580.pdf

Local Prosthetics and Orthotics

One of our members looked for a local business that makes prosthetics and orthopedics. The company she used, Body in Motion in New Jersey, had never made a kidney protector before, but they looked at examples, did research, and were able to customize it to her daughter’s needs. Make sure to ask for an estimated cost after insurance.

Pros: You may have more options to customize it for your kiddo. Local means you can choose a place and time for evaluation/fittings that work with your schedule.

Cons: It can be expensive, especially if not covered by insurance.  Extra legwork for you - researching companies, making calls, and getting an RX/info from your doctor.

Contact: Start with a web search for prosthetics and orthopedics near you.