Abstract: An apparatus for spinal positioning having a plurality of balloons that are selectively inflated and deflated by the user to customize the degree of the support and the location of the support to the user's back. In a preferred embodiment, the balloons number six and are arranged in two vertical rows so that the user can selectively provide support to one side of the back or the other to effect the best curve (lordosis) of the spine for maximum comfort. The balloons are incorporated in a jacket or brace worn about the torso of the user and fastened by an appropriate fastener. An air pump is operatively connected to the balloons by valving to direct air to or from each of the individual balloons. A control panel provides an array of switches to allow the user to select an individual balloon or balloons for inflation or deflation.

Abstract: A washer for use in combination with a pedicle screw of the type having a toggling connecting member. The washer has a face comprising a spherical annulus facing the bottom surface of the connecting member. The spherical annulus is geometrically a portion of a sphere having a center coincident with the center of rotation of the hemispherical head of the pedicle screw. The radius of the sphere containing the spherical annulus of the washer is the same radius as the sphere containing the circle where the washer and the connecting member touch when the pedicle screw is tightly screwed to the bone. The connecting member is thereby able to toggle even with the screw firmly seated to the bone. In an alternative embodiment, the washer is provided with a low narrow profile to a avoid an significant increase in the height or width of the pedicle screw alone. A router is described for flattening a portion of bone surface to receive the washer.