2. History of Spinal Orthotic
Management
The first evidence of the use of spinal orthoses can be traced
back to Galen (131 to 201 AD).
Primitive orthotic devices were made of items that were readily
available during this period: leather, whalebone, and tree
bark.
Ambroise Pare (1510 to 1590) wrote about bracing and spinal
supports, and Nicholas Andry (1658 to 1742) coined the term
orthopaedia, pertaining to the straightening of children.
4. Technology has revamped the field of orthotics, with new stronger and
lighter materials.
Although materials available for orthotic construction have changed,
the types of pathologic conditions treated have remained virtually
constant for years.
The primary goal of modem orthoses is to aid a weakened muscle
group or correct a deformed body part.
The clinician's priority should be to determine which spinal motion to
control.
5. Terminology
Orthosis: A singular device used to aid or align a weakened body part ·
Orthoses: Two or more devices used to aid or align a weakened body part.
Orthotics: The field of study of orthoses and their management .
Orthotic: An adjective used to describe a device.
Orthotist: A person trained in the proper fit and fabrication of orthoses .
6. Some Acronyms examples of spinal orthoses follow:
CO: Cervical orthosis
CTO: Cervicothoracic orthosis
CTLSO: Cervicothoracolumbosacral orthosis
TLSO: Thoracolumbosacral orthosis
LSO: Lumbosacral orthosis
SO: Sacral orthosis
7. Prefabricated Versus CustomOrthoses
The availability of prefabricated orthoses today presents the
rehabilitation team with a variety of choices and some
challenges.
Many of the prefabricated orthoses come in various sizes and can
be fitted to patients often with little or no adjustment.
While this can be a benefit to the patient and the team in terms of
time, care should be taken to ensure that the design and
function of these orthoses are appropriate for the patient's
condition and not used purely for convenience.
Custom orthoses, in most cases, provide a more comfortable fit
with a higher degree of control, and can be designed to
accommodate a patient's unique body shape or deformities.
8. Orthotic Prescription
Prescriptions should include the following items:
Patient's name, age, and gender , Current date
Date the orthosis is needed
Vendor's name , Diagnosis
Functional goal , Orthosis description
Precautions
Physician's name and unique physician identifier number ·
Physician's signature with office address and contact phone
number.
Brand names and eponyms for the orthosis should be avoided.
Established acronyms are acceptable
9. Detailed descriptions of the orthosis, the joints involved, and the
functional goals are important. For a nonarticulated orthosis the
fixed angle should be indicated.
For an orthosis with a moveable joint, the range of motion desired,
end limitations of range, and assistance (or resistance) through
the range should be specified.
Knowledge of the patient's medical condition is essential for a
number of reasons. For example, the condition might be
progressive, with further expected functional loss.
10. Normal Spine Biomechanics
Movement of the vertebral column occurs as a
combination of small movements between vertebrae.
The mobility occurs between the cartilaginous joints at
the vertebral bodies and between the articular facets
on the vertebral arches.
Range of motion is determined by muscle location,
tendon insertion, ligamentous limitations, and bony
prominences.
11. In the cervical region, axial rotation occurs at the
specialized atlantoaxial joint.
At the lower cervical levels, flexion , extension and lateral
flexion occur freely. however, the articular processes,
which face anteriorly or posteriorly, limit rotation.
In the thoracic region, movement in all planes is possible,
although to a lesser degree.
12. In the lumbar region, flexion, extension, and lateral flexion
occur, but rotation is limited because of the inwardly facing
articular facets.
An understanding of the threecolumn concept of spine
stability/instability is helpful to ensure that the proper orthosis
is prescribed:
The anterior column consists of the anterior longitudinal
ligament, annulus fibrosus, and the anterior half of the
vertebral body.
The middle column consists of the posterior longitudinal
ligament, annulus fibrosus and the posterior half of the
vertebral body.
13. The posterior column consists of the interspinous and supraspinous
ligaments, the facet joints, lamina, pedicles, and the spinous
processes.
The loss of normal spinal anatomy can affect the stability of the
spine.
Spine motion can be classified with reference to
horizontal(transverse), frontal(coronal), and sagittal planes.
the
Spinal motion can shift the center of gravity, which is normally
located approximately 2 to 3 cm anterior to the S1 vertebral body.
White and Panjabi provided a summary of the current literature,
revealing motion in flexion and extension, laterally, and axially.
15. In the cervical spine, extension occurs predominantly at the occipital
C1 junction.
Lateral bending occurs mainly at the C3-C4 and C4-C5 levels.
Axial rotation occurs mostly at the CI-C2 levels.
In the thoracic spine, flexion and extension occur primarily at the
T11- T12 and T12 - L1 levels.
Lateral bending is fairly evenly distributed throughout the thoracic
levels.
Axial rotation occurs mostly at the T1- T2 level, with a gradual
decrease toward the lumbar spine.
16. The thoracic spine is the least mobile because of the
restrictive nature of the rib cage.
In the lumbar spinal segment, movement in the
sagittal plane occurs more at the distal segment,
with lateral bending predominantly at the L3-L4
level.
Knowledge of the normal spinal range of motion
helps in understanding how the various cervical
orthoses can limit that range .
18. Soft collars provide very little restriction in any plane.
The Philadelphia-type collar mostly limits flexion and
extension.
The four-poster brace and Yale orthosis have better
restriction, especially with flexion-extension and
rotation.
The halo brace and Minerva body jacket have the most
restriction in all planes of motion.
19. An interesting phenomenon related to movement in the spine occurs
during motion.
If the movement along one axis is consistently associated with
movement around another axis, coupling is occurring.
For example, if a patient performs left lateral movement (frontal
plane) motion, the middle and lower cervical and upper thoracic
spine rotate to the left in the axial plane .
This causes the spinous processes (posterior side of the body) to
move to the right.
21. In the lower thoracic spinal segment, left lateral movement in the
frontal plane can cause rotation in the axial plane, with the spinal
processes moving in either direction .
The lumbar area has a contradictory movement pattern when
compared with the cervical spine.
With left lateral bending of the lumbar spine, the spinous processes
move to the left.
Patients with scoliosis and patients who undergo radiologic testing
would benefit from an evaluation for the normal coupling patterns
noted.
22. Nachemson performed the classic studies on normal adults that
measured intradiskal pressures during a variety of activities
and positions. Standing pressure was referenced as 100 in
the lumbar disk.
Lowest pressure measurements were noted in the supine
position, with progressively higher pressures in the following
positions:
side lying, standing, sitting, standing with hip flexion, sitting with
forward flexion, standing with forward flexion, and lifting a
load while sitting with forward flexion
24. The halo orthosis provides flexion, extension, and rotational control of
the cervical region. Pressure systems are used for control of
motion, as well as to provide slight distraction for immobilization of
the cervical spine.
25. This orthosis provides maximum restriction in motion of all the
cervical orthoses. It is the most stable orthosis, especially in the
superior cervical spine segment.
A halo is used for approximately 3 months (10 to 12 weeks) to
ensure healing of a fracture or of a spinal fusion.
Usually a cervical collar is indicated after the halo is removed,
because the muscles and ligaments supporting the head become
weak after disuse.
All pins on the halo ring should be checked to ensure tightness 24 to
48 hours after application.
26. Indications
unstable cervical fractures
postoperative management
Contraindications
stable fractures
less invasive management could be used
extremely soft skull might not tolerate the pin placement
Special Considerations
Skull density determines halo pin placement as well as the number
of halo pins to be used. While four pins are used on average,
more can be necessary in soft skulls (osteoporotic, fractured, or
in an infant).
27. Cervical Orthoses
Philadelphia or Miami
provide some control of flexion, extension, and lateral bending,
and minimal rotational control of the cervical region.
28. Pressure systems are used for control of motion, as well as to
provide slight distraction for immobilization of the cervical spine.
Circumferential pressure is also intended to provide warmth and as a
kinesthetic reminder for the patient.
Design and Fabrication: These orthoses are prefabricated,
consisting of one or two pieces that are usually attached with
Velcro straps.
29. The posterior aspect of the collar supports the head at the
occipital level.
Two-piece designs have an anterior and posterior section.
The anterior section supports the mandible and rests on
the superior edge of the sternum.
Indications
cervical sprains, strains, or stable fractures
protection and to limit mobility after surgery to allow healing
Contraindications
These orthoses are not indicated for unstable fractures
31. Sternal Occipital Mandibular Immobilizer (SOMI)
Biomechanics:
provides control of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and
rotation of the cervical spine.
Pressure systems are used for control of motion, as well as to
provide slight distraction for immobilization of the spine.
A benefit of the SOMI orthosis is that it can be donned while the
patient is in the supine position.
32. The SOMI is a good choice for patients who are restricted to bed,
because there are no posterior rods to interfere with comfort of
the patient.
A headband can be added so that the chin piece can be removed.
This maintains stability but improves accessibility for daily
hygiene and eating.
33. Design and Fabrication:
The SOMI is prefabricated, consisting of a cervical portion with
removable chin piece and bars that curve over the shoulders.
Also used are posts that fixate the cervical portion to the sternal
portion of the orthosis.
The anterior section supports the mandible and rests on the
superior edge of the sternum, with the inferior anterior edge
terminating at the level of the xiphoid.
The posterior aspect of the orthosis supports the head at the
occipital level.
35. Indications
cervical sprains, strains, stable fractures
protection and to limit mobility during the healing process
in the postoperative patient
Contraindications
unstable fractures with ligament instability
36. Yale
The Yale orthosis consists of chin and occipital pieces that extend
higher on the skull in the posterior region; this increases comfort.
The Yale orthosis is a modified Philadelphia collar with a thoracic
extension.
The extension consists of fiberglass that extends both anteriorly and
posteriorly, and has thoracic straps that hold the sections
together.
The thoracic extension to the orthosis helps to stabilize injuries at
the vertebral levels of C6-T2
37. Four-Poster
The four-poster is a rigid cervical orthosis with anterior and posterior
sections consisting of pads that lie on the chest and are
connected by leather straps.
38. The struts on the anterior and posterior sections are adjustable in
height.
Also note that some cervical orthoses can also incorporate a sternal
extension addition, which converts them from a cervical orthosis
to a cervicothoracic orthosis (Aspen).
40. Milwaukee Orthosis
Biomechanics: for scoliosis management and provides control of
flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the cervical, thoracic, and
lumber spine.
41. The Milwaukee is a good choice for patients who need
correction in the higher thoracic region of the spine.
Indications
scoliotic management of the high thoracic curves
Contraindications
lower thoracic and lumbar curves
43. Prefabricated
Biomechanics: provides control of flexion, extension, lateral
bending, and rotation using three-point pressure systems and
circumferential compression.
Design and Fabrication: designed in modular forms, with anterior
and posterior sections connected by padded lateral panels and
fastened with Velcro straps or pulley systems.
Many of these are covered in breathable fabric and have a variety
of different shapes and options, such as sternal pads or
shoulder straps.
44. Indications
traumatic or pathologic spinal fractures in the mid to lower thoracic
region or lumbar region
Contraindications
obessity , excessive lordosis or a need for increased lateral stability
45. Custom-Fabricated Body Jacket
Biomechanics: provides control of flexion, extension, lateral
bending, and rotation.
It uses three-point pressure systems and circumferential
compression. It is molded to fit the patient and designed for
patient needs.
Anterior trim lines are usually located inferior to the sternal notch
and superior to the pubic symphysis.
46. The posterior trim lines have a superior border at the spine of the
scapula, and an inferior border at the level of the coccyx.
These trim lines are adjusted during fitting to allow patients to sit
comfortably and to use their arms as much as possible without
compromising the function of the orthosis.
47. Indications
traumatic or pathologic spinal fractures in the mid to lower thoracic
region or lumbar region
postsurgical management of fractures,
after surgical correction spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, spinal stenosis,
herniated disks, and disk infections
Contraindications
application of the orthosis over a chest tube, colostomy, or large
dressings
48. Cruciform Anterior Spinal Hyperextension(CASH)
Biomechanics: flexion control for the lower thoracic and lumbar
regions.
49. The system consists of posteriorly directed forces through a sternal
and suprapubic pad, and an anteriorly directed force applied
through a thoracolumbar pad attached to a strap that extends to
the horizontal anterior bar.
When properly fitted, the sternal pad is one-half inch below the sternal
notch, and the suprapubic pad is one-half inch above the
symphysis pubis.
50. Indications
mild compression fracture of the lower thoracic and thoracolumbar
regions
Contraindications
unstable fractures or burst fractures
Special Considerations
Excessive pressure on the sternum can result in poor compliance
with wearing schedule. Subclavicular pads may be added to help
distribute this pressure.
52. This is done with a three-point pressure system consisting of
posteriorly directed forces through a sternal and suprapubic pad,
and an anteriorly directed force applied through a thoracolumbar
pad attached to a strap that extends to the lateral uprights.
A thoracolumbar pad is attached to a strap that extends to the lateral
uprights and adjusts the tension on the body.
When properly fit, the sternal pad will be one-half inch below the
sternal notch, and the suprapubic pad will be one-half inch above
the symphysis pubis.
53. Indications
compression fractures of the lower thoracic and thoracolumbar
regions and more lateral support than the CASH
Contraindications
unstable fractures or burst fractures
Special Considerations
Excessive pressure on the sternum might result in poor compliance
with wearing schedule. Subclavicular pads can be added to help
distribute this pressure
54. Taylor and Knight-Taylor
Biomechanics: control of flexion, extension, and a minimal axial
rotation via the three-point pressure systems for each direction
of motion.
For example, flexion is controlled by:
the posteriorly directed forces applied through the axillary straps
and the abdominal apron, and an anteriorly directed force
through the paraspinal uprights.
56. Design and Fabrication: posterior pelvic band extending past the
midsagittal plane and across the sacral area. Two paraspinal
uprights extend to the spine of the scapula. An apron front
extends from the xiphoid to just above the pubic area.
Knight-Taylor has an additional thoracic band that extends from the
uprights just below the inferior angle of the scapula to the
midsagittal plane, and a lateral upright on each side that
connects the pelvic band and the thoracic band.
These bands provide additional lateral support and motion control to
the trunk.
57. Indications
postsurgical support (for years) of traumatic fractures,
spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, herniated disks, and
disk infections
However, clinicians typically now prefer the custom-molded TLSO
body jackets, because better control of position is obtained
Contraindications
unstable fractures that require maximum stabilization
Special Considerations
Pressure per square inch is higher because of the width of the bands
and uprights
59. Lumbosacral Corset
Biomechanics: anterior and lateral trunk containment, and assists in
the elevation of intraabdominal pressure. Restriction of flexion
and extension can be achieved with the addition of steel stays
posteriorly.
60. Design and Fabrication: made from cloth that wraps around the torso
and hips. Adjustments are done with laces on the sides, back, or
front.
Closure can be with hook and loop (Velcro) or hook and eye
fasteners or snaps.
Many different styles are available in prefabricated sizes, usually in 2inch increments, and are designed to fit the body circumference at
the level of the hips.
61. Indications
low back pain, herniated disks and lumbar muscle strain, and to
control gross trunk motion for pain control after single-column
compression fractures with one-third or less anterior height loss
Contraindications
unstable fractures
Special Considerations
Long-term use can cause an increase in motion in the segments
above or below the area controlled by the orthosis
Muscle atrophy can also potentially occur after long-term use,
causing an increased risk of reinjury. Patients can also develop a
psychologic dependence on the support after injury
63. Design and Fabrication: This orthosis has a pelvic band that lies
posteriorly and extends laterally to just anterior to the midsagittal
line. Laterally the ends fall midway between the iliac crest and
the greater trochanter.
The superior edge of the thoracic band is at the level of T9-T10 no
or just distal to the inferior angle of the scapulae. The pelvic and
thoracic bands are connected by two paraspinal uprights
posteriorly and a lateral upright on each side at the midsagittal
line.
Orthoses can be fabricated from a traditional aluminum frame
covered in leather, or thermoplastic material molded into the
same shape.
64. Indications
degenerative disk disease, herniated disk, spondylolisthesis, and
mechanical low back pain, and for postsurgical supports for
lumbar laminectomies, fusions, or diskectomies
Contraindications
unstable fractures, or conditions
in the upper lumbar or thoracic area
Special Considerations
Adequate clearance of the paraspinal
uprights is required to allow for some reduction of lumbar lordosis when
the anterior apron is tightened and while sitting. Clearance on the
lateral uprights over the iliac crests is also an area to be monitored
66. Sacroiliac Orthosis or Sacral Orthosis
Biomechanics: provides anterior and lateral trunk containment,
and assists in the restriction of some pelvic flexion and
extension. It also aids in compression of the pelvis.
Design and Fabrication: This orthosis is usually made from cloth
that wraps around the pelvis and hips.
67. Some models also include laces on the side in which adjustments
can be made, whereas others use straps for adjusting.
Indications
pelvic fractures or symphysis pubis fractures or strains. It is useful
to control motion and for pain control
Contraindications
unstable fractures, as well as fractures or conditions in the lumbar
region
69. Idiopathic (infantile, juvenile, adolescent)
Congenital
neuromuscular scoliosis
have different etiologies, treatment approaches, and outcomes.
1- Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form
2- Idiopathic infantile scoliosis is typically described from birth to 3
years of age
3- juvenile is from 4 years until the onset of puberty
4- adolescent type from puberty to closure of the facets
70. With idiopathic scoliosis the evaluation should reveal no anomalous
vertebrae, spinal tumors, or other neurologic abnormalities.
Most cases remain stable for a long period and progress late in life
when osteoporosis and degenerative spinal conditions normally
have their onset.
71. Progressive curves need to be treated, but there is not adequate
evidence that scoliosis can be treated by electrical stimulation,
nutritional supplementation, exercise, or chiropractic treatment.
There is evidence to indicate that an orthosis can slow the progression
of idiopathic scoliosis, and it is therefore the nonoperative treatment
of choice.
Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis is more likely to be associated with adult
corpulmonal and death.
72. Treatment should begin when curves reach approximately 25
degrees. Because thoracic curves predominate, the Milwaukee
brace might be more effective than the TLSO.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type for which
an orthosis is indicated, usually for curves between 25 and 45
degrees.
Curves with an apex at T9 or lower can be managed with a TLSO.
Curves with a higher apex require a Milwaukee brace.
Single lumbar curves are treated with a lumbosacral orthosis.
73. Congenital scoliosis is secondary to a vertebral anomaly that is
present at birth:
1- Failure of part of the vertebrae to form ( hemivertebrae)
2- failure of the vertebrae to properly segment (block vertebrae)
3- combination of both
Congenital scoliosis is associated with abnormal development in the
embryo, and associated developmental abnormalities in other
organ systems should be considered, especially in the renal,
urinary, and cardiac systems.
74. Neuromuscular diseases
Neuromuscular diseases are also associated with scoliosis.The
prevalence of scoliosis in this population is much higher than with
idiopathic scoliosis, from 25% to 100%.
In pediatric patients with a spinal cord injury, almost 100% have
scoliosis. In general, there is a significant chance of progression
in the presence of severe neurologic disease.
In adults scoliosis curvatures tend to be relatively benign and of the
C-type appearance, and are less likely to progress to the extent
that they cause clinical cardiopulmonary problems.
76. Progression of the curve can occur in adulthood, which is typical for
scoliosis in general. Spasticity or flaccidity can be present,
depending on whether there is upper versus lower motor neuron
involvement.
Multisystem involvement is more common in this group because
these diseases are not isolated to the spinal column.
Consideration should also be made for the presence of contractures,
hip dislocations, sensory abnormalities, mental retardation, and
pressure ulcers.
77. Scoliosis can continue to progress despite the proper use of an
orthosis, and in these cases appropriate surgical referrals should
be made.
An important factor to consider before surgery is the pulmonary
function in a patient with neuromuscular disease.
Before surgery is considered, the forced vital capacity and forced
expiratory volume in 1 second should be at least 40% of that
predicted for the patient's age.
Fusions are delayed as long as possible in an attempt to achieve
maximal spinal growth (>10 years of age). Declining pulmonary
function is a consideration for performing surgery earlier.
78. Duval- Beaupere followed the long-term progression of idiopathic
scoliosis and noted that curve progression accelerated during
growth spurts.
Curves measured from 5 to 29 degrees, and the curves from 20 to 29
degrees progressed in almost 100% of the patients. Approximately
50% of the curves from 5 to 19 degrees appeared to progress.
Curve progression has been explained using Euler's theory of elastic
buckling of a slender column.
Axial compressive forces evidently cause a column to buckle. This is
associated with height growth and weight gain, especially
increased upper limb weight during growth spurts.
79. An increase in height and weight commonly occur together and might
synergistically promote curve progression.
The timing for surgery in a child with scoliosis is controversial:
1- A child with a curve greater than 45 degrees
2- A child who is still growing
3- child who cannot or does not wear a brace are at a greater risk of
curve progression and may be considered for surgery
81. Scoliosis Orthoses
Boston Brace, Miami Orthosis, Wilmington Brace
Biomechanics: provide dynamic action using three principles (endpoint control, transverse loading, and curve correction) to prevent
curve progression and to stabilize the spine.
83. The effective nonoperative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis using a
low-profile TLSO has been demonstrated over the past 30 years.
The most common of these orthoses is the Boston brace, introduced
by Hall and Miller in 1975.
This system is available in prefabricated modules that are available
in 30 sizes and can be ordered by measurement; they are then
custom-fit to the patient.
Modules can be used to fit approximately 85% of patients. Six of
these sizes will fit approximately 60% of patients requiring an
orthosis.
The orthosis can also be custom-fabricated from a mold of the
patient's body.
84. Indications
immature skeleton and documented progression of a thoracic or
thoracolumbar idiopathic scoliosis that measures 25 to 35 degrees
(measured by the Cobb method) and has an apex of T7 or lower
Contraindications
curves that measure greater than 40 degrees in who are skeletally
immature
curves in excess of 50 degrees after the end of growth
Both of these types of patients are typically candidates for surgery
85. Special Considerations
The effectiveness of any orthotic system depends on compliance with
the wearing schedule.
Most patients should wear the orthosis 23 to 24 hours per day for it to
be effective.
Some physicians allow time out of the orthosis to participate in
athletic activities or swimming and some special occasions, and
this seems to improve acceptance and compliance.
87. Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided
Manufacturing
Technology is available to help the practitioner improve efficiency in
design and fabrication, as well as reducing the invasiveness of
orthotic measurement of the patients.
The development of computer-aided design (CAD) and computeraided manufacturing (CAM) has allowed the fabrication of orthoses
today in less time than it took only a few years ago.
The Bio Scanner is one of the CAD-CAM systems available.
89. It combines CAD, laser scanning, threedimensional imagery, and
motion-tracking technology to design orthotic and prosthetic
devices.
The body part involved is scanned via a handheld scanning wand,
which uses a motion-tracking device embedded in the scanner. The
wand is passed over the body part.
A three-dimensional image of the body part is transmitted to the
computer, and the software interprets the data.
Any portion of the body can be directly scanned. There is no size
limitation. A miniature transmitter is placed on the body to
accommodate for any movement.
90. The BioScanner is able to image negative and positive models,
allowing the clinician to use the clinical techniques required for
each patient.
With scan-through-glass technology that the company provides for
use with its scanner, the clinician can position the body horizontally
for a TLSO.
The precision of the Bio Scanner captures shapes to an accuracy of
0.178 mm. Patients can be scanned for spinal jackets without
movement from supine to prone positions.
An option in the computer software allows one hemisphere to be
scanned, and then the computer develops the other hemisphere to
form a complete image.
91. Bone Stimulation
The CMF Spinalogic bone growth stimulator is a portable, batterypowered, microcontrolled, noninvasive bone growth stimulator
indicated for adjunct electromagnetic treatment to primary lumbar
spinal fusion surgery for one or two levels.
92. There are different bone stimulators on the market that are in use today.
Some are used in conjunction with spinal orthoses and do not
interfere with the control that the orthosis provides or the treatment
protocol set by the physician.
Some of the benefits of these bone stimulators are as follows:
(1) lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use
(2) after an anterior or posterior approach in surgery
(3) noninvasive
This treatment has been shown to give a 21% point increase in healing
over those who did not use the stimulator.
It also helps the body's own healing process to begin working.