A brace may be prescribed after an injury or surgery.
Functions of a brace include:
- immobilization of your spine during healing
- stabilization of injured areas
- pain control by restricting movement
Braces, also called orthotics, are made from a variety of materials such as elastic cotton/nylon, foam rubber, and molded plastic. An orthotist is a medical professional that specializes in braces, adjusting their fit, and providing tips for comfort and proper wear.
Braces can be worn on any section of the spine (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral) and are named for the area of the spine to which they are applied.
Common spine orthoses include:
- Cervical (e.g., Miami J, Philadelphia collar)
- Cervical-thoracic (e.g., Minerva, SOMI)
- Halo ring (e.g., Breman, PMT)
- Thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO)
- Lumbar-sacral orthosis (LSO)
Follow your doctor’s instructions for when and how to wear your brace.