Orthotic Treatment for Spinal Injury

Spinal injuries are the result of trauma to the spinal column, which creates a disruption of motor and sensory pathway signaling. Sensory and strength testing, usually along with MRI scans, is required to determine the level of involvement. Often, bracing can be part of a successful treatment plan.

Orthotic intervention of spinal cord injuries is determined by the level of involvement in the spine:

Most lower level spinal injuries can be treated with lower extremity orthoses to aid in weight bearing and improve walking capacity. These orthoses range in type according to the level of the injury. Orthotic solutions may be applied to the foot and ankle, the knee, or both.
Injuries to the neck (cervical spine) can sometimes be treated with upper limb orthoses. These include wrist-hand orthoses that passively position the wrist and hands, and tenodesis orthoses to aid in grasp.
Orthopedic spinal orthoses, including back braces and neck braces, can be helpful for stabilizing the spine following traumatic injury.

Your board-certified Hanger Clinic orthotists will work with your care team to find the best possible solutions for your needs.