The days when for the treatment of spinal problems it was necessary to sign up in a long queue and wait for the corset to be made in a special workshop are long gone. An alternative to a long wait was a plaster "shirt" on the thoracolumbar part of the back. The gypsum fixed too rigidly, deprived the person of mobility, as a result, the muscles weakened and the recovery was delayed. Today, there are many orthopedic shops where a patient can make an individual thoracolumbar corset or choose the necessary model among finished products from various manufacturers.
Thora-lumbar corsets: what is it?
Thoracolumbar models of corsets are used for fixation and unloading of the spine. They allow you to stabilize the state of the spinal column, relieve pain, restore the ligamentous-articular apparatus.
Progressive approach to the manufacture of orthopedic structures has allowed us to develop the most effective treatment models. Orthopedists have abandoned a one-piece fixation product so that bandages and corsets can be adjusted to problemsspecific patient. Today corsets for different parts of the spine of several degrees of rigidity have been launched into mass production.
How is a thoracolumbar corset better than a plaster cast?
People with spinal problems or injuries quickly realize the benefits of using a thoracolumbar brace over a cast:
- The cast is worn once and is not removed for several months. The thoracolumbar corset for the spine is made of durable fabric with hard inserts that can withstand repeated use. It can be removed if necessary, and the wearing mode is determined by the attending physician.
- A plaster cast is modeled at the time of application, and after the material has dried, it cannot be corrected (just apply a new one). If a mistake is made, then the bandage will harm, not cure. The thoracolumbar corset is adjustable along the back of the patient with straps, straps and Velcro, which allows you to customize each product to individual needs.
- The plaster cast is one-piece and equally rigid from all sides, while the corset provides the necessary number of stiffening elements that create pressure on certain parts of the spine.
- Bandages have several degrees of rigidity, which allows you to fix the spine without restricting the patient's mobility. The person remains functional and does not need additional care.
Classification according to the degree of rigidity and functional purpose
Medical thoracolumbar orthopedic corsets are divided into 2 degrees of hardness: semi-rigid and hard.
According to their functional purpose, corsets are also divided into 2 groups:
- Corrective products - corsets to support the spine, correct posture and prevent curvature.
- Fixing products - corsets limiting the mobility of the spine. Designs are necessary for rehabilitation after injuries and operations, in addition, they help to successfully relieve pain during exacerbations of back diseases and correct deformities.
When choosing an orthopedic thoracolumbar brace, self-treatment is unacceptable. The type and model are determined by the attending physician.
Semi-rigid corset models
The semi-rigid thoracolumbar corset is designed for soft impact and support of muscle and bone tissues. This is an elastic vest that covers most of the torso. The design provides for plastic, in rare cases, metal, stiffeners. Their number, depending on the model, is from 2 to 6 units. Corset orthopedic thoracolumbar semi-rigid changes the force of compression, depending on the number of ribs. There are popular models from several manufacturers on the market, allowing you to choose the best option for each patient.
Model "Orlette - 250A"
This model of the thoracolumbar corset is well-deservedly popularthanks to its efficiency and ease of use. The model is designed for posture correction in different age groups. This thoracolumbar corset is equipped with two stiffening ribs and is adjustable with elastic straps and straps.
In addition, indications for the appointment of this corset model is:
- defects (curvature) of the thoracic region;
- prevention of stoop during sedentary work;
- degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine;
- prevention of fractures in osteoporosis or tuberculosis;
- increasing the result of manual therapy;
- rehabilitation period after injuries.
Indications for rigid fixation
Rigid thoracolumbar corset is designed for strict fixation of the spine in the desired position. The design may have a large number of metal stiffeners or a plastic base. The use of ribs allows you to optimally influence the damaged area, while maintaining the ability to move.
Plastic models are custom made as they are not adjustable.
Thora-lumbar brace with rigid fixation is prescribed in the following cases:
- for spinal injuries;
- in case of ligament injury;
- in the treatment of acute osteochondrosis;
- when diagnosing intervertebral hernias;
- when the vertebrae are displaced with the threat of root compression;
- for tumors and other destructive processes,destroying bone tissue.
Model "Orlette LSO-991"
This model consists of a rigid plastic frame and fixing straps (6 pieces). Corset thoracolumbar LSO-991 is able to provide rigid fixation from the thoracic to the sacral vertebrae. The product of the German company Rehard Technologies helps to restore motor activity in complex pathologies. The corset is popular all over the world because it has several advantageous differences from similar products from other brands:
- The design is light and comfortable, the plastic frame is light weight. The product can be worn both over underwear and on the naked body.
- The corset is securely fixed with adjustable straps, the protruding reclinator provides a large range of fixation of the vertebrae.
- The model is universal. Within the same size, the corset can be adjusted to different chest volumes. Since it is available in 4 sizes, the product can be selected for any age and height.
- The corset does not interfere with radiation diagnostics.
How to choose the right corset?
When a patient is prescribed to wear a thoracolumbar corset, its type and degree of rigidity is determined by the attending physician. The best option is if the selection of the size is made by a specialist with the appropriate education. Dimensional lines of different manufacturers have differences. Measurements should be carried out according to the requirements for the description of the product.
When choosing a corset model "Orlette LSO-991"measurement of hip and waist circumferences. The resulting values are summed and divided in half. Further, the required size is determined in accordance with the received figure:
- S XL corset fits 75cm to 90cm;
- corset size M - range from 90 to 105 cm;
- corset size L - range from 105 to 120 cm;
- XL corset - 120-130 cm.
Other corset styles may require height measurement to fit.
Reviews of doctors and patients about thoracolumbar models of corsets are the most favorable. They note the high efficiency of treatment and ease of use of these orthoses, compared with plaster fixation. For many, such a corset has greatly facilitated life and improved he alth.
