What is the Orthotrac?
The Orthotrac™ Pneumatic Vest is the first clinically validated, non-surgical spinal treatment device that delivers self-administered, external spinal "unloading" (weight transfer resulting in reduced pressure on the spine). At the same time, it allows the patient to participate in his/her normal daily activities. The Orthotrac technology and product application is patented and registered with the FDA. It is currently being prescribed by licensed healthcare providers across the U.S. and normally is covered by your insurance provider.
How does a patient receive Orthotrac therapy?
The Orthotrac is a custom-made device that is prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider, specifically for you. Typically, it is worn during activities that are limited by pain, such as during standing or walking. It can be used as an independent treatment option or in conjunction with surgeon-prescribed physical therapy and occupational therapy.
How does the Orthotrac relieve low back pain?
The main function of the Orthotrac is to reduce the compressive forces on the spine by transferring your upper body weight off the spine to your hips. MRI comparisons of a spine before and during application of an Orthotrac confirm the effect of offloading weight from the spine.
What makes the Orthotrac different from other treatments?
The Orthotrac applies decompressive forces to the spine, transferring body weight from the upper torso to the hips and preventing compression and aggravation of lower back spinal conditions. The Orthotrac pushes upward and downward on the lower torso/spine in order to create this effect. The Orthotrac is an ambulatory device, meaning it is portable and wearable during everyday activities. Orthotrac therapy may be applied at home, work, play or during travel, at the patient's convenience. This allows a patient to comply with therapy guidelines much more easily than traveling to a clinic each time to receive therapy.
How much force is applied to the body using the Orthotrac?
The amount of force generated by the Orthotrac vest is controlled by the patient through use of a manual inflation device. The unloading provided is sufficient to decrease Intradiscal pressure by 23%. A relief valve prevents over-inflation. The patient can also instantly deflate the Orthotrac to relieve the pressure at any time. In addition, the Orthotrac provides stabilization of the torso (while still allowing flexibility).
Is Orthotrac therapy effective?
Orthotrac therapy has improved chronic low back pain patients’ activities of daily living, while reducing pain, in both the near-term and over an extended period of time. In a study of more than 300 patients who wore an Orthotrac vest for at least eight weeks, 70% of the patients experienced significant improvement in both pain relief and quality of life. The Orthotrac vest also reduces treatment costs according to a recent economic study.
