Spinal Orthoses are used to treat patients with a variety of spinal disorders ranging from lumbar pain to complex spinal trauma and deformity. The primary goals of spinal orthoses are to aid a weakened muscle group, correct/support a deformed spine, and maintain the stability of a fractured spine. The orthoses can protect a body part from further injury or can correct the position of a body part and can be separated into:

LSO (Lumbo-sacral orthosis)

LSO’s come in a variety shapes and sizes, from custom hard shell devices designed to deal with severe spinal trauma to elastic tensor belts designed to merely offer mild support , and everything in between. Many modern custom and semi-custom devices make use of pulley systems and multi-material design to achieve lightweight and flexible but solid support that is capable of handling anything but the most unstable fractures.

TLSO (Thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis)

TLSO’s also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, however they are typically custom fit to each individual regardless of support and vary greatly in shape, size and design based on their intended functions. Some common uses are to correct scoliosis (see Scoliosis), protect the spine post-surgery or to stabilize the spine immediately after a traumatic injury that does not require surgery. They can also be used to help with positioning a patient who has excessive weakness who would be unable to otherwise hold themselves upright.

CTLSO (Cervico-thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthosis)

CTLSO’s are only typically required in instances where stabilization of the whole spine is required, usually due to extreme trauma or multiple level surgery.

CTO (Cervico-thoracic orthosis)

CTO’s are used when only the upper 2 regions of the spine, the cervical and thoracic need to be immobilized and protected.