The Spinomed brace is unlike any other back brace. It is supported by multiple clinical studies. If you or a loved one suffers from back pain due to poor posture or vertebral compression fractures, this product is definitely for you.
Unlike most back braces that can lead to muscle weakening and dependency, the Spinomed brace offers a different experience. Consistent use of the Spinomed brace, as supported by studies, has been shown to strengthen back muscles.
This leads to reduced pain, increased ease in daily activities, and improved posture, allowing clients to truly appreciate its support and comfort the more they wear it.
Spinomed Brace
The Spinomed® back brace by medi is specifically designed for individuals with osteoporosis who have sustained a vertebral compression fracture. It also benefits those with extremely poor posture, regardless of whether they experience back pain.
Unlike traditional rigid braces, it is referred to as an “activating” brace — meaning it doesn’t just immobilize, but actually encourages proper posture and muscle strengthening.
What makes the Spinomed orthosis unique is its biofeedback system. It gently reminds your body to maintain proper spinal alignment while simultaneously allowing your back muscles to work and strengthen — which is crucial for long-term recovery.
Spinomed Brace Research
The Spinomed brace research is quite impressive. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated significant benefits (1 – 12). Let me share some key findings from the clinical trials. In the landmark Pfeifer study (1) , patients showed a:
- 73% increase in back extensor strength
- 58% improvement in abdominal muscle strength
- 38% reduction in average pain
- 11% decrease in kyphosis angle — that’s the forward hunching
- 3% increase in body height
But what really impressed me was the patient compliance rate — 90% of patients wore it consistently for six months. In my experience, that’s exceptional for any medical device.
Spinomed Back Brace Benefits
In real-world applications, patients report some remarkable improvements. Based on the patient surveys in the research:
- 65% reported the device supported them significantly during therapy
- 64% experienced much improved mobility in daily activities
- 68% had an enhanced feeling of safety
- 56% experienced pain relief
- 94% would recommend it to others
What I find most encouraging is that patients describe it as a “close friend” — something that supports them throughout their daily activities rather than restricting them.
Spinomed Brace Fitting Process
An improperly fitted brace won’t provide the intended benefits and may even cause discomfort.
During the fitting, the healthcare professional will check that the biofeedback system activates when the patient slouches forward. The gentle pressure reminds you to straighten up without restricting your natural movement.
A proper fitting should always be done by a licensed orthotist or healthcare professional who has been trained to fit the Spinomed brace. The device needs to be individually adjusted to each patient’s body mechanics and specific spinal curvature.
How to Use the Spinomed Brace
From a practical standpoint, most patients wear it 2 to 3 hours daily initially, building up tolerance. The research shows 72% wear it daily, and 67% use it for 5 to 8 hours per day once acclimated.
The key is gradual introduction and proper education about its use. Like any medical device, there’s an adjustment period, but the compliance rates suggest most patients find it quite manageable.
Is the Spinomed Brace Right For You?
So who’s a good candidate? The research shows excellent results for:
- Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
- Men over 65 with osteoporotic vertebral fractures
- Individuals with thoracic kyphosis greater than 50 to 60 degrees
- Those who would prefer a less rigid brace after surgical interventions, pending surgeon approval
The German guidelines specifically recommend that the Spinomed should be used in combination with physiotherapeutic exercises and posture training.
Spinomed and Osteoporosis Exercise Program
Can you use the Spinomed and follow an osteoporosis exercise program at the same time?
Absolutely! I recommend you start your physiotherapeutic exercise program once you have been given clearance by your doctor to start exercising again.
Limitations
Let’s be realistic about limitations. This isn’t a magic cure. It’s most effective when:
- Combined with appropriate medical treatment for osteoporosis
- Used as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program
- Properly fitted and regularly adjusted
- The user is committed to consistent use
It’s not suitable for everyone — those with severe spinal deformities, or certain medical conditions may need alternative approaches.
Conclusion
Based on my review of the research and clinical experience, the Spinomed brace has been shown to benefit individuals with osteoporotic fractures, extremely poor posture, and back pain. The combination of pain relief, improved function, and muscle strengthening makes it invaluable.
What impresses me most is that the Spinomed addresses both immediate concerns — like pain and stability — while working on long-term goals like getting a stronger back and better posture.
If you’re dealing with an osteoporotic fracture, extremely poor posture, or back pain, I’d encourage you to discuss this option with your healthcare provider. Remember, proper fitting and professional guidance are essential for optimal results.
Spinomed® is a trademark of medi GmbH & Co. KG.
References
- Pfeifer M et al. Effects of a new spinal orthosis on posture, trunk strength, and quality of life in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis: a randomized trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2004;83(3):177-186.
- Pfeifer M et al. Effects of two newly developed spinal orthoses on trunk muscle strength, posture, and quality-of-life in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis: a randomized trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2011;90(10):805-815.
- Dionyssiotis Y et al. Prospective study of spinal orthoses in women. Prosthet Orthot Int 2015;39(6):487-495.
- Meccariello L et al. Dynamic corset versus three-point brace in the treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine: a prospective, comparative study. Aging Clin Exp Res 2017;29(3):443-449.
- Kaijser Alin C et al. Effect of treatment on back pain and back extensor strength with a spinal orthosis in older women with osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial. Arch Osteoporos 2019;14(1):5.
- Genest F et al. Feasibility of simple exercise interventions for men with osteoporosis – A prospective randomized controlled pilot study. Bone Rep. 2021;15:101099
- Hettchen M et al. Effects of the “Spinomed active” orthosis on chronic back pain in kyphotic women with osteoporotic vertebral fractures three months and older: A randomized controlled study. Front Pain Res (Lausanne). 2022;3:1038269.
- Schupfner R et al. Prospective Comparison of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture Treatment. Ortho & Rheum Open Access J 2020;16(2):555932.
- Kaijser Alin C et al. Experiences of using an activating spinal orthosis in women with osteoporosis and back pain in primary care. Arch Osteoporos 2020;15(1):171.
- eurocom e. V.: Rückenbandagen und Rückenorthesen: Weniger Schmerzen, mehr Mobilität. Ergebnisse der repräsentativen Umfrage des Instituts für Demoskopie Allensbach im Auftrag von eurocom e.V. Published online:
https://www.eurocom-info.de/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/eurocom_Broschuere- - Ruecken_Allensbach_web.pdf (Last access 19/02/2024).
eurocom e. V. Nutzen und Wirksamkeit medizinischer Hilfsmittel: Steigende Lebensqualitat durch weniger Schmerz und mehr Mobilitat. Reprasentative Umfrage des Instituts fur Demoskopie Allensbach im Auftrag von - eurocom e. V. Published online: https://www.eurocom-info.de/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Allensbach-Brosch%C3%BCre_Webversion.pdf (Last access 19/02/2024).
