Long gone are the days when, in order to treat spinal problems, you had to sign up in a long line and wait for the corset to be made in a special workshop. An alternative to the long wait was a plaster “shirt” on the chest lumbar. Gypsum fixed too rigidly, depriving a person of mobility, as a result, muscles weakened and recovery was delayed. Today, there are many orthopedic workshops where, according to the doctor's prescription, the patient can make an individual chest-lumbar corset or choose the necessary model among finished products from various manufacturers.
Thoracolumbar corsets: what is it?
Thoracolumbar corset models are used to fix and unload the spine. They allow you to stabilize the condition of the spinal column, relieve pain, restore the ligamentous-articular apparatus.
A progressive approach to the manufacture of orthopedic structures allowed us to develop the most effective treatment models. Orthopedists abandoned the whole fixation product so that the bandages and corsets can be adjusted to the problems of a particular patient. Today, corsets for various parts of the spine of several degrees of rigidity are launched into mass production.
How is a lumbar corset better than a plaster cast?
People who are faced with diseases or injuries of the spine quickly understand what advantages they have in using a chest lumbar corset compared to a plaster cast:
- The plaster cast is worn once and is not removed for several months. The chest lumbar corset for the spine is made of durable fabric with rigid inserts that can withstand repeated use. It can be removed if necessary, and the wearing regimen is determined by the attending physician.
- The plaster cast is modeled at the time of application, and after the material has dried, it is impossible to fix it (just apply a new one). If a mistake is made, then the dressing will harm, not cure. The chest lumbar corset is adjustable on the patient's back with straps, straps and Velcro, which allows you to customize each product to individual needs.
- The gypsum dressing is solid and equally rigid on all sides, while the corset provides the necessary number of stiffeners that create pressure on certain areas of the spine.
- Bandages have several degrees of rigidity, which allows you to fix the spine without limiting the patient's mobility. The person remains healthy and does not need additional care.
Classification according to degree of rigidity and functional purpose
Medical lumbar orthopedic corsets are divided into 2 degrees of rigidity: semi-rigid and rigid.
By functional purpose, corsets are also divided into 2 groups:
- Corrective products - corsets for supporting the spine, correcting posture and preventing distortions.
- Fixing products - corsets restricting spinal mobility. 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 corset, self-medication is unacceptable. The type and model is determined by the attending physician.
Semi-rigid corset models
The semi-rigid thoracolumbar corset is designed for gentle exposure and support of muscle and bone tissues. This is an elastic vest that covers most of the body. The design provides for plastic, in rare cases, metal, stiffeners. Their number, depending on the model, is from 2 to 6 units. Semi-rigid orthopedic thoracolumbar corset changes the compression force, 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 "Orlett - 250A"
This model of the lumbar corset is well-deserved due to its effective impact and ease of use. The model is designed to correct posture in different age groups. This chest lumbar corset is equipped with two stiffeners and is regulated by elastic straps and straps.
In addition, the indications for the appointment of this model of the corset is:
- defects (curvature) of the thoracic region;
- stoop prevention with sedentary work;
- degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine;
- prevention of fractures in osteoporosis or tuberculosis;
- strengthening the result of manual therapy;
- rehabilitation period after injuries.
Indications for rigid fixation
The chest lumbar 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 affect the damaged area, while maintaining the ability to move.
Plastic models are made according to individual indications, since they do not have the ability to regulate.
A sternum lumbar corset is prescribed in the following cases:
- with injuries of the spine;
- with damage to the ligaments;
- in the treatment of acute osteochondrosis;
- in the diagnosis of intervertebral hernias;
- with displacement of the vertebrae with the threat of squeezing the root;
- with tumors and other destructive processes that destroy bone tissue.
Model "Orlett LSO-991"
This model consists of a rigid plastic frame and fixing belts (6 pieces). Thoracolumbar corset LSO-991 is able to provide rigid fixation from the thoracic to 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 of other brands:
- The design is lightweight and comfortable, the plastic frame is lightweight. The product can be worn both over underwear and on a naked body.
- The corset is securely fixed with adjustable straps, the protruding declinator provides a wide range of vertebrae fixation.
- The model is universal. Within the same size, the corset can be tailored to different chest sizes. Since 4 sizes are available, the product can be selected for any age and height.
- Corset does not interfere with radiation diagnosis.
How to choose a suitable corset?
When appointing a patient to wear a lumbar corset, his type and degree of rigidity is determined by the attending physician. The best option if the selection of size will be made by a specialist with the appropriate education. Dimensional lines of different manufacturers have differences. Measurements should be made according to the requirements for the product description.
When selecting a corset model "Orlett LSO-991" is measured circumference of the hips and waist. The obtained values are summed and divided in half. Further, the required size is determined in accordance with the received figure:
- corset size S XL corresponds to a range of 75 to 90 cm;
- corset size M - range from 90 to 105 cm;
- corset size L - range from 105 to 120 cm;
- corset size XL - 120-130 cm.
For other corset models, a height measurement may be required to fit the model in length.
Reviews of doctors and patients about the lumbar models of corsets are most favorable. They note the high effectiveness of the treatment and the ease of use of these orthoses, compared with plaster fixation. For many, such a corset has greatly facilitated life and improved health.