What Exactly Is Durable Medical Equipment? DME is medical equipment that is ordered by a doctor for the treatment and prevention of specific pain or injury. Some examples include: functional knee bracing, walking boots and shoulder immobilizers. DME is always prescribed by a health care provider. The patient is fit and educated on the product by a person who is properly trained to do so. When a medical condition is considered curable and can be treated at home for a specified period of time, such as a fractured hip, DME can help a patient stay mobile. Thus enhancing quality of life, minimizing pain and possibly preventing surgery. When an athlete is injured DME can assist in getting them back on the field or court in a more timely manner whether it be a hinged knee brace after an ACL repair or a Bone Growth Stimulator after a fracture DME can decrease the time an athlete is sidelined.