What different back orthoses are available?

Back orthoses are diverse depending on the functions they are supposed to have and the parts of the back that are supposed to be supported. The first step is to determine which section of the spine is affected. A distinction is made between the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.

In most cases, orthoses treat a single one of these spinal column sections, but there are also back orthoses that stabilize several sections or even almost the entire spinal column. A further question arises in the function of the orthosis. There are orthoses that stabilize and relieve the spine, and in some cases, immobilization (immobility) of individual sections of the spine should be achieved.

Corrective orthoses are also used in the area of the back. There are further distinctions with regard to the materials used: from hard plastic shells and metal rods to fabric orthoses and supporting elastics, different components are incorporated depending on the requirements of the orthosis. Most back orthoses are manufactured in different sizes and can be purchased in any medical supply store. These are usually the stabilizing orthoses. In contrast, the scoliosis corset, for example, which is intended to correct a malposition, is individually adapted to the spine of the affected person.

What do I have to pay attention to when I wear it?

When wearing the back orthosis, the most important thing is whether the orthosis fits correctly. The orthosis should therefore always be fitted to the body of the person concerned by a trained orthopedic technician. The correct size of the orthosis is of decisive importance.

The correct fitting of the back orthosis must also be taught and checked by qualified personnel such as orthopedic technicians and physiotherapists. Ideally, the orthosis should be tight enough so that it does not slip and at the same time wide enough so that it does not cause pain. Special attention must be paid to the blood circulation of the skin under the orthosis, and pressure points must be avoided so that the tissue is not damaged.

When wearing a back orthosis, it is also important to consider when and how long the orthosis should be worn. Is it a few hours a day or 24 hours a day? Does the orthosis also have to be worn at night? Is it only needed during physical activity or also when resting? All these questions should be discussed with responsible physiotherapists and physicians.