ABSTRACT
The purpose of an orthosis is to immobilize a motion segment and unload the forces on the segment of the spine. Instability is not a global phenomenon, rather, almost always a segmental occurrence. Clinical instability is the inability of the spine, when under physiological loads, to preserve a relationship between vertebrae where is there no resulting damage or ensuing irritation to the spinal cord or nerve roots. The use of the spinal orthoses has long been a debated modality, both in the use for conservative management for the traumatic and osteoporotic fractures, and for postoperative spinal fusions. Even with advancements of surgical technique and instrumentation, the use of orthoses continues to be debated. Electrical stimulation is an option for increasing the fusion rate. There is no conclusive evidence in support of bone stimulation devices; therefore, there are no clear guidelines.
