Measure: from the sacrum to just below C7 following the spinal curvature.
Size | Back Length cm | Back Length Inches | Part Number |
XSmall | To 43 cm | To 17" | 850221 |
Small | 44 - 49cm | 17" - 19.5" | 85022 |
Medium | 50 - 55cm | 19 1/4 - 21 3/4" | 85023 |
Large | 56 - 61cm | 21 3/4 - 24" | 85025 |
maximum waist circumference is 54 inches (all sizes).
Fitting the Spinomed IV
Step 1: Adjusting the aluminum “Spine” of the brace
The patient should wear a light piece of clothing between the Spinomed
and the skin. Hold the back brace against the patient’s back so that the
lower edge of the brace is level with the coccyx. The upper edge should
reach to approximately. 3 – 5 cm below C7. Start by shaping at the lordosis
and then work upwards, molding to the patient’s spine. The Spinomed
IV aluminum panel can be cold molded by hand. If additional leverage
is required, the Spinomed IV aluminum panel can be placed over a soft
curve such as your thigh. Removal of aluminum panel from garment is not
required.
Remember, if the patient is looking down while watching you fit the brace,
they are not in the most upright position and will have an improper fitting
Step 2: Full Width Posterior Panel and Anterior panel
A. Adjusting the Full width posterior panel -The posterior panel comes pre-molded. If additional molding is necessary, the
use of a heating gun (348°F) is required to obtain a permanent result. To shape the posterior panel, it is necessary to remove the panel from the pocket by opening the Velcro-type closure on the bottom of the pocket.
B. The anterior panel is pre-molded and should not require adjustment.
Step 3: Adjusting the straps
A. Pelvic strap
Ensure that the pelvic strap runs below the pelvic bone. This strap should be tight.
B. Shoulder strap
The patient should stand as upright as possible without too much discomfort. Select the tension so that the shoulder strap
lies flat against the shoulder but it should not cut in. It should still be possible to slide a flat hand between the strap and the
shoulder. It is important that you stretch the entire belt from top to bottom. The shoulder pad should be in contact with the
anterior area of the shoulder and curl under the arm to avoid any chafing. A pre-shaped plastic stabilizer is inserted to make
it easier to don/doff. This plastic stabilizer can be removed at any time.
C. Elastic middle strap
Adjust the middle strap to the optimum length so that the reverse buckle is located in the extension of the armpit and the
patient’s shoulders are adequately held back.
Check the fit of the brace
- Aluminum back panel adjusted to fit the patient’s spinal curvature
- The pelvic strap runs firmly below the pelvic bone
- The shoulder strap is flat against the body and a flat hand can still be inserted between the strap and the shoulder
- The shoulder pad is in the optimum position
- The elastic connecting strap is adjusted to the correct length
Putting on the Spinomed IV
Putting on the orthosis
Wear the Spinomed over a thin layer of clothing. Standing in front of a long mirror will make it easier to don.
The Spinomed IV has been professionally fit for your individual needs and should not be adjusted. Never adjust the pelvic (lower) and shoulder straps. If additional adjustment is required, please contact your provider.
Putting on the Spinomed
- Undo the large Velcro fastening on the front of the brace.
- Put on the orthosis as you would put on a backpack (Fig. 1).
- Slide your right hand into the hand-loop on the right abdominal closure.
- Hold the left-hand abdominal closure with your left hand.
- Push slightly down and out to position the Spinomed correctly (Fig. 2).
- Place the left-hand closure over the abdomen and complete the application by placing the right-hand closure on top of the left (Fig. 3).
- The Spinomed is positioned correctly when the abdominal closure is squarely positioned and the lower strap sits just below the hip bones.
Look in the mirror to check the fit
The brace should nestle closely against your spine. The bottom edge of the brace is level with the buttock cleft (Fig. 4).
For optimal comfort and to avoid migration, ensure the pelvic strap is tighter than the shoulder strap.
Mode of operation
When the Spinomed is worn, your back muscles are activated. As a result, your upper body will be gently straightened, countering the curvature of the spine which is typical of osteoporosis. Once the Spinomed is properly fit by a technician, the brace will support your muscles while holding your shoulders back and straightening your upper body. You will still be able to freely move your shoulders and arms. You will be able to breathe unhindered and will likely experience reduced pain and increased daily mobility.
Application
Wearing of the brace should be gradually increased to progressively re-establish muscle activity. Try to wear the Spinomed a little longer each day, gently training the muscles. Your care provider will discuss with you the daily use requirements of the Spinomed IV for your particular needs. The Spinomed IV is not suitable for use when lying down.
Care instructions
Handwash the back pocket, strap, shoulder pad and abdominal pad in water, using mild detergent. The back brace can be wiped with a damp cloth. The Spinomed should not be washed in the washing machine or dryer.
Storage instructions
Store the Spinomed in a cool, dry place and protect from direct sunlight.