STEP

Sternal Thoracic Extension Plate

L1220

STEP I

Height Range
12 5/8” – 22 5/8”

Adjustable height with bendable bar to adjust sternal plate angle

STEP II

Height Range
16 1/8” – 22 3/8”

Adjustable height with precision adjustable sternal plate angle

Attaching a STEP to any xiphoid-height-anterior spinal orthosis extends its upper limit to just inferior to the sternal-notch level.

The STEP’s height adjustability is achieved by sliding bars and spaced holes. Pectoral pressure is increased or decreased by bending aluminum (STEP-I) or resetting the hinge (STEP-II).

The “sternal plate,” so named because of its appearance, is a misnomer. It should not apply pressure to the sternum. The right and left ends, the pectoral plates, alone should apply the extensive force.

Shoulder straps are attached by quick-release buckles and are adjustable in length.

The STEP is an integral part of certain Blue Diamond Orthopedic TLSOs. Or it may be retro-fitted to other spinal braces. If purchased separately, it will include a hole-drill-template label and installation instructions. Either way, a hex key for the adjustment screws is included.

Specifications

  • Molded Kydex sternal plate
    • Contacts only pectoral muscles
    • Eliminates sternal pressure
  • Height Range:
    • STEP-I: 12 5/8” – 22 5/8”
    • STEP-II: 16 1/8” – 22 3/8”
  • Adjustable Shoulder Straps Range:
    • 5” to 11.5”
  • Includes allen wrench for adjustment

Size

  • Universal

PDAC Approved

  • L1220

Options

  • STEP I
    • Greater height range (see Specifications on left)
    • Fitter may need to bend metal if angle needs to be reset
  • STEP II
    • Adjustable joint for precise angle setting
    • No metal bending needed

Ask About

Custom-branding

Becoming a Sales Representative

Printable Information

STEP Fitting Guide (PDF)

STEP Brochure

STEP L1220 – PDAC Code Approval Letter (PDF)

STEP I or STEP II

A Guide to Brace Selection

At Blue Diamond Orthopedic, we offer our STEP in two versions—the STEP-I and STEP-II. Both are coded identically and both offer the same level of support and control. The primary difference is how to set the sternal pressure.

STEP Selection Tips

Use the STEP-II if the fitter doesn’t have metal-bending tools or if the fitting will be conducted away from the office—i.e., nursing home, hospital room.
Use the STEP-I for very short patients, especially elderly kyphotic females.

STEP I

STEP II