Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for maintain a preselected tension between a first portion and a second portion of an orthotic brace include a controlled tension unit that includes a housing coupled to a first portion of the orthotic brace, the housing having a cavity formed therein, one or more constant-force spring mounted at or near a first end of the cavity, and a connector cable having a first end connected to an end of the one or more constant-force spring and a second end extending out of the housing through a second end of the cavity. The second end of the connector cable is configured to connect with a coupling element coupled to a second portion of the orthotic brace. In this arrangement, the controlled tension unit is configured to maintain a preselected tension between the first portion and the second portion of the orthotic brace.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to orthotic devices, systems, and methods configured to support a lumbar spine. In some embodiments, a lumbar spinal orthosis system includes a torso belt configured to be secured about a torso of a user, a pelvic belt configured to be secured about a pelvis of the user, and a distractive force mechanism connected between the torso belt and the pelvic belt. The distractive force mechanism is configured to generate a force between the torso belt and the pelvic belt acting bi-directionally across a lumbar spine of the user to substantially offload bodyweight of the user passing through the lumbar spine.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to orthotic devices, systems, and methods configured to support an ankle joint. In such devices, systems, and methods, a calf sleeve is configured to be secured about a leg of a user, a foot plate is configured to be secured about a foot of the user, and a distractive force mechanism is connected between the calf sleeve and the foot plate. The distractive force mechanism is configured to generate a force between the foot plate and the calf sleeve acting bidirectionally across the ankle to substantially offload bodyweight of the user passing through the ankle and lower limb.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to orthotic devices, systems, and methods configured to support a lumbar spine. In some embodiments, a lumbar spinal orthosis system includes a torso belt configured to be secured about a torso of a user, a pelvic belt configured to be secured about a pelvis of the user, and a distractive force mechanism connected between the torso belt and the pelvic belt. The distractive force mechanism is configured to generate a force between the torso belt and the pelvic belt acting bi-directionally across a lumbar spine of the user to substantially offload bodyweight of the user passing through the lumbar spine.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for maintain a preselected tension between a first portion and a second portion of an orthotic brace include a controlled tension unit comprising a housing coupled to a first portion of the orthotic brace, the housing having a cavity formed therein, one or more constant-force spring mounted at or near a first end of the cavity, and a connector cable having a first end connected to an end of the one or more constant-force spring and a second end extending out of the housing through a second end of the cavity. The second end of the connector cable is configured to connect with a coupling element coupled to a second portion of the orthotic brace. In this arrangement, the controlled tension unit is configured to maintain a preselected tension between the first portion and the second portion of the orthotic brace.