Often, patients with injuries, curvature and other diseases of the spine are prescribed to wear special medical belts, the so-called corsets with stiffeners. What do these devices give to patients? What is a stiffener? These issues need to be considered in more detail.
What is a medical corset
Medical, also known as an orthopedic corset, is a special wide belt made of breathable elastic material. It is equipped with stiffeners and fastened around the body with tightening straps. A similar device is used to obtain a therapeutic effect for problems with the spine.
What are stiffeners
A stiffener is a narrow plate made of plastic or metal. There are two classes of inserts:
- Adjustable rigid ribs, that is, requiring individual adjustment depending on the shape of the spine. The preferred material for execution is metal.
- Non-adjustable semi-rigid ribs, i.e. quite flexible plastic inserts that do not require additional adjustments.
The plates are inserted into special pockets or sewn into the structure. In some models, the rigidity of the ribs is uneven, in the middle part they are denser, and closer to the edges - thinner.
How many ribs can be in an orthopedic corset
In medical corsets there can be from 2 to 6 stiffening ribs. The strength of the fixation of the product depends on this. The ribs are sewn in from the back so that the spine is provided with the necessary support.
Corset with 2 stiffeners is able to provide the lightest degree of fixation. In such models, the stiffener is often made of medical plastic. A similar brace-corset is used to straighten minor curvatures in children and adult patients. The ribs are located at a small distance from the spine on both sides. If the manufacturer uses metal for inserts, then the fixation is a little stronger. But still, such a corset with stiffeners is classified as a product of weak or semi-rigid fixation.
Corset for 3 ribs has an additional insert placed along the spine. This model can be used for treatment:
- osteochondrosis;
- sciatica;
- displacement of the vertebrae;
- intervertebral hernias;
- minor injuries;
- chronic pain.
Orthopedic corsets for 4 ribs are able to create an average (semi-rigid) degree of fixation of the spine. A similar bandage with stiffening ribs is recommended as unloading of the lumbar part,support for muscle imbalance, fixation in case of displacement of the vertebrae, post-traumatic and postoperative rehabilitation.
Corset with 6 stiffeners is able to completely immobilize the spine. The product is completed with inserts made of metal. Such corsets are used for rehabilitation after complex injuries (including fractures) and operations. Rigid fixation does not allow deviating from the natural anatomical position, contributing to the restoration of muscles and bone tissues.
Optimal quantity
Only a doctor can correctly determine the corset with how many stiffening ribs a patient needs. It also determines the design of the product. The success of treatment may depend on compliance with medical recommendations.
If a hard corset with 6 ribs is recommended as the best option, then its selection is carried out by a physician with the appropriate education. In this case, self-medication can have negative consequences for the spine, and in addition, it is fraught with exacerbation of other chronic diseases.
Classification of corsets by spine
Corsets differ not only in the number of ribs, but also in the spine. There are 3 varieties:
- Chora-lumbar corset. This product covers the chest and lower back. There are hard and semi-hard options. Most often, the stiffener in these models is made of metal.
- Lumbosacral corset. The product wraps around the pelvis, its feature is a low back wall. Products of different types of rigidity are produced.
- Lumbar corset with ribsrigidity. A product of this type completely covers the lower back, partially capturing the chest and upper part of the pelvis.
Selection of a corset by size
Each manufacturer sets its own size range. Some are based on the waist circumference, others are based on the waist circumference, which is measured 8 cm below the waist. Still others may have other dimensions. Before buying, all necessary measurements are performed on a naked body.
How to care for a corset
Despite the fact that corsets are made of materials that can pass through air, long-term wearing leads to contamination. Keep in mind that the corset is worn for at least 6 hours during the day. If the product needs washing, then it is done by hand, with delicate means. Do not use dry cleaners or solvents. After washing, the corset is not twisted, but straightened and dried in a well-ventilated place. The use of heating appliances for drying is strictly prohibited. Do not dry in direct sunlight.
