There are several types of prefabricated TLSO braces available. These off-the-shelf options provide a wide variety of design styles and stabilization methods. Many braces will utilize the Three Point Pressure System or Abdominal Compression to provide support and stability to the spine. If prefabricated options are deemed inappropriate, a custom TLSO can be fabricated to the individual’s specific size and needs. Custom braces are used when the patient has additional factors making the case more complex. This can include factors such as age, size, surgical history, and skin integrity. The most appropriate brace option, whether prefabricated or custom, can be determined after an evaluation.

How TLSO Braces Work

The TLSO will often combine rigid panels and a sternal shield to provide support and stability. The panels and the shield are padded for the patient’s comfort. The brace provides support to the trunk and upper thoracic regions and pressure to the abdomen to reduce load on intravertebral disks. This is done by tightening the brace and increasing stabilization around the spine as a result of the rigid panels. The sternal shield is height adjustable and should be set to a position just below the sternum. The adjustable nature of the shield allows the brace to provide support and stabilization to multiple levels of the thoracic spine. This shield helps to prevent unwanted motion and places the user in an ideal postural alignment to reduce pain or promote healing.

Wearing a TLSO Brace

This brace comes with the option of over the shoulder straps and under the shoulder straps. This is selected for you depending on the location and severity of your injury. However, some TLSO braces do not have a sternal shield at all. Certain braces utilize strapping or a backpack design to provide thoracic stabilization. This alternative design can be beneficial to individuals who have difficulty tolerating a sternal shield. The backpack straps still prevent unwanted motion while also providing an appropriate pull on the shoulders to promote beneficial postural alignment.

Despite differences in design styles, the benefit of having a TLSO brace remains the same. Once tightened, the user is placed in a corrected alignment. This allows them to perform activities that were previously impossible. Activities of daily living and physical therapy become much more tolerable for the patient. This is due to pain relief and a reduced risk of further injury.

View instructions for donning TLSO braces.

Conditions: Scoliosis, spinal fractures, back pain and spinal fusion, post op healing, kyphosis.