When you need a rigid back support that strictly restricts motion, your doctor may prescribe to you a Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral Orthosis (TLSO). The medical billing code L0469 is used for TLSO's in which movement is highly restricted. There are a certain number of qualifications that a brace must have in order to qualify as an L0469 medical billing code. (see qualifications below)
An L0469 TLSO must provide control for the sagittal and coronal planes of the body. The back of these braces must be a rigid back panel, where as the front is a flexible and soft apron style with straps. Padding and closures are required on braces of this nature. L0469 back braces must measure from the sacrococcygeal junction to scrapulae (from from the tailbone to the upper-middle back).
On L0469 braces, side strength is provided by the pelvic, thoracic, and lateral frame pieces. These braces are structured in such a way as to restrict most trunk motion from side-to-side and front to back. The way these braces release tension from the spinal column is by creating pressure so the load is lifted away from the discs. This is very important for a quick healing time.
These braces come ready made. To qualify for the L0469 medical billing code, they must not be modified for any one specific patient. Braces of this nature should be used under a doctor's advisement. If you have an injury or condition which requires strict motion control, visit your doctor for expertise.