Boston Brace Questions

Question 1

Trochanteric extension

Answer 1

Usually unilateral

Acts as an extended lever arm to address decompensation in conjunction with the lumbar pad to address a lumbar curve

Question 2

Lumbar pad

Answer 2

Anteriorly directed force from the posterior aspect of the orthosis
Derotates the spine by applying force to the transverse process

Question 3

A lumbar pad will be utilized in which type/s of curves?

Answer 3

Lumbar
Thoracolumbar
T10, 11 thoracic curves

Question 4

Thoracic Pad

Answer 4

Medially directed force from the lateral aspect of the orthosis
Influences the vertebra by the articulation with the ribs

Question 5

What type/types of curves will require the addition of a thoracic pad?

Answer 5

Thoracic curves with apices at T8-T11

Question 6

Thoracic window

Answer 6

Placed contralateral in relation to the thoracic pad

Will always be larger than the thoracic pad to allow for rib excursion

Question 7

Thoracic extension

Answer 7

Constraining force for thoracolumbar curves

Terminates at the superior endpoint on the side opposite of the apex of the curve

Question 8

Axillary extension

Answer 8

Used on the side of decompensation in conjunction with the trochanteric extension
Medially directed force

Question 9

Gusset

Answer 9

Elastic material that is plastic welded to the module
Provides structural integrity and assists in the "righting reflex"

Question 10

The superior anterior trimline is placed:

Answer 10

At the level of the xiphoid process

Question 11

The inferior anterior trimline should be placed:

Answer 11

to allow 1cm clearance at the anterior thigh with the hips flexed at 90 degrees

Question 12

The inferior anterior trimline should _____ the symphysis pubis.

Answer 12

cover

Question 13

The superior posterior trimline should terminate ______ inferior to the ________.

Answer 13

2cm; inferior angle of the scapula

Question 14

The inferior posterior trimline should allow ______ clearance from the chair when sitting with the hips ________.

Answer 14

2cm; flexed at 90 degrees

Question 15

The superior and inferor lateral trimlines are:

Answer 15

dictated by the blueprint design

Question 16

The lateral trimlines should follow the _______ slope of the ribs

Answer 16

downward

Question 17

The side opposite the trochanteric extension should allow ______ above the trochanter

Answer 17

2 cm

Question 18

The superior anterior trimline for hypokyphotic patients should be place:

Answer 18

2cm distal to xiphoid