In some instances spinal bracing is indicated to help control back pain and decrease loading on the vertebrae and discs. This is accomplished with an orthotic device (commonly referred to as an orthosis), which is an external device applied to the body to limit motion, assist in correcting deformity, reduce axial loading, or improve function.

It may be necessary for an orthotist to design and fabricate a custom orthosis for a specific biomechanical deficiency. In other circumstances the orthotist may be able to utilize an off-the-shelf orthosis to achieve the desired result. An orthosis may be worn temporarily until a weakness or injury is overcome, or on a long term basis to treat a chronic muscle, skeletal, or neurological condition.