An orthotist is the person who makes and fits the brace to your body. Before the brace fits you right, you will most likely go to the orthotist a few times to have it adjusted.

Here are some suggestions:

• Wear only a soft clean T-shirt under your brace to protect your skin. Choose a shirt that fits tight so there are few wrinkles. Change the T-shirt every day and when it gets dirty or sweaty.

• Keep your skin clean and dry. Shower daily.

• Don’t hide the brace from your friends. Tell them what it is and why you have to wear it. You will most likely find that your friends will be great support.

• Ask your orthotist about the best way to clean your brace.

• See your health care provider as often as instructed so they can check how well the brace is working for you.

Your health care provider may ask you to do some exercises to help keep your back flexible and make it stronger. Do them as often as your healthcare provider suggests. Stay active by walking and doing other activities. You can still play sports if you want to. You can take your brace off for certain sports, such as swimming and running. Your health care provider can tell you more about this.

Contact your health care provider if:

• You gain more than 10 pounds

• The brace starts fitting differently

• The brace hurts you or rubs your skin, causing redness or a rash

• Something keeps you from wanting to wear your brace