Proper orthosis application initially may take two people, the wearer and a helper.  This keeps the brace from being twisted when it is put on.  However, you should be able to put on the orthosis without help within one month.

The orthosis is worn over an undershirt with the underpants worn over the orthosis.  For females, the orthosis is worn over the bra.  As a rule, loose fitting clothes will not reveal the outline of your brace.  Pants, shorts and skirts with elastic waistbands or drawstrings may fit more easily.

1. The wearer stands up and the helper stands behind holding the brace in the left hand.
2. The helper puts the brace in front of the patient with the opening facing them.
3. The helper reaches around the patient with an arm on each side of the patient and spreads the brace wide enough so the patient can step into the brace.
4. Make sure all the straps are outside the plastic girdle.
5. Make sure the brace is not twisted and is facing straight ahead.  The opening of the brace should be in the middle of the back so that the bumps on the spine and the crease between the buttocks are halfway between the edge.
6. It is important that the brace is worn as close to the skin as possible.
7. With your hands on the “hips” of the brace, push the brace toward the feet so that the waist rolls on the inside of the brace and fits above your hip bones.
8. Pull the extra cloth of the undershirt out at the brace opening.  MAKE SURE THERE ARE NO WRINKLES ON THE UNDERSHIRT.  Wrinkles can cause irritations and skin breakdown.
9. The helper threads the straps through the buckles and fastens the buckles loosely.
10. Tighten the brace by applying pressure to the side of the brace opposite to the buckle opening.  If you are unable to secure the brace this way, the wearer may lie on a firm surface.
11. If using the “side lying method,” secure the brace loosely, lie on the floor, bend knees and the helper leans on the side of the brace squeezing the brace to the lines, while pulling the straps.
12. At first your brace will only be buckled up to the line on the strap put there by your doctor or orthotist.  Later, when you are used to your brace, it will be buckled as tightly as the helper can do it.