Spinal and Abdominal Support

You have been provided with a spinal/abdominal support by the Orthotics Service.

Please follow the instructions given to you at your clinical appointment, and use this information for further reference.

What is the function of a spinal/abdominal support?

A spinal support is a device that is worn around the trunk of your body and hips to provide support to your spinal column and pelvis.

Depending on your diagnosis and functional needs, your spinal support may be either a rigid or a fabric design.

Your prescribed spinal/abdominal support has been provided to meet your clinical needs and has been adapted by your clinician to treat your presenting symptoms.

Your device should only be used by you.

The aim of a spinal support is to:

•          Support weak muscles

•           Support vertebrae (bones of your spine)

•           Reduce joint pain

•           Control and support abdominal hernias

How often should I wear my device?

When provided with your prescribed spinal/abdominal support, it is important to increase your wear time gradually. You will need to allow your muscles and skin to adjust to the new support and corrective pressures being applied to the trunk of your body.

During your appointment, the Orthotist will have provided information regarding how you should wear the support.

However we would generally suggest to start wearing your support for approximately 30 minutes, and then gradually increasing this period of time each day by 30 minutes until you are able to wear daily with no concern.

How should I care for my device?

Your spinal/abdominal support should be worn over a close fitting cotton vest or t-shirt to prevent the risk of skin irritation and to reduce moisture.

Hygiene is very important when wearing a spinal/abdominal brace daily. By keeping your device clean you will minimise your risk of skin irritation and bacterial build up.

If you have been prescribed a fabric support, this can be hand washed with mild detergent and left to dry naturally. Please do not tumble dry.

Remember to monitor your skin for redness, soreness or inflammation daily. If you are concerned about any skin pressures or areas of tenderness, you should contact the Orthotics Service to arrange a review appointment.

How often will my prescription be reviewed?

Your spinal/abdominal support provision will not be reviewed routinely by the Orthotic department, however we advise that you contact to arrange a review appointment if the following applies:

•           One year has passed since supply for general review

•           You feel your device has worn and is no longer functioning effectively

•           Your symptoms have returned

•           You are concerned about a change in your condition

How do I contact the Orthotics Service?

Orthotics Service
Monday to Friday
08:30-16:30
Telephone: 01429 522471

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:

Telephone: 01642 624719

Freephone: 0800 092 0084

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.

Telephone: 01642 617617

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet Reference: PIL1417
Date for Review: 10/05/2026