
Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Durable Medical Equipment (Bracing) - TLSO
1746885899
A spinal brace is a supportive device worn to stabilize the spine and reduce movement, often used after an injury, surgery, or for conditions like fractures, scoliosis, or spondylolisthesis (spinal misalignment). Braces can support different areas of the back, including the upper (thoracic), middle, and lower (lumbar) spine. They work by limiting movement, providing structural support, and reducing strain, which can help decrease pain, improve posture, and promote healing. Bracing is often required before moving on to other therapies. Alternatives to bracing include: ✔️ Rigid braces for greater immobilization. ✔️ Soft or flexible braces for mild support and posture correction. ✔️ Physical therapy to strengthen back muscles and improve stability. ✔️ Surgery for severe cases requiring long-term correction.
Potential risks of bracing include: ✔️ Skin irritation where the brace contacts the body. ✔️ Pressure sores if the brace is not properly fitted. ✔️ Temporary movement restrictions affecting flexibility.
A proper fitting ensures correct alignment, and adjustments may be needed to match body shape and comfort.
To get the best results from your brace: ✔️ Wear it as directed by your provider. ✔️ Check for irritation or discomfort and adjust as needed. ✔️ Attend follow-up visits to monitor fit and spinal alignment.
Bracing is typically part of a broader treatment plan. As your spine stabilizes and heals, brace use may be gradually reduced under medical supervision.
Spinal bracing may be necessary for support and recovery. Talk to our team to find the best approach for you.
FAQs
How should a TLSO brace be properly fitted and used?
A proper fitting by a certified orthotist is essential to ensure correct alignment and effective pressure distribution. Adjustments may be necessary to match the individual's body shape for comfort. It is crucial to wear the brace as directed by a healthcare provider, regularly check for irritation or discomfort, and attend follow-up visits to monitor the fit and spinal alignment.
Is a TLSO brace part of a broader treatment plan?
Yes, using a TLSO brace is typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan. As the spine stabilizes and heals, the use of the brace may be gradually reduced under medical supervision, potentially transitioning to other forms of treatment such as physical therapy to strengthen back muscles and improve stability.
What are the different types of spinal braces available besides a TLSO?
Alternatives to a standard TLSO include rigid braces for greater immobilization, soft or flexible braces for mild support and posture correction, lumbar-sacral orthoses (LSOs) for lower spine stabilization, and customized TLSOs for more specific needs. In severe cases, surgical intervention might be considered for long-term correction.
What are the possible risks of wearing a TLSO brace?
Wearing a TLSO brace can lead to skin irritation or pressure sores if not properly fitted. Temporary movement restrictions might impact flexibility, and if worn for prolonged periods without medical guidance, it could lead to reduced mobility or dependency on the brace.
What is a TLSO and how does it help with spinal conditions?
A Thoracic-Lumbar-Sacral Orthosis (TLSO) is a type of spinal brace that provides support to the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine. It is used to stabilize the spine after an injury, surgery, or for conditions such as fractures, scoliosis, or spondylolisthesis (spinal misalignment). The TLSO limits spinal movement, offers structural support, reduces strain, alleviates pain, and helps improve posture and promote healing.