INITIAL SET-UP

  • Remove the TAO from the packaging

  • Lay back of the device on a flat surface

  • Locate the four locking pins (two on either side of the legs). Remove and store safely for re-insertion later

  • Extend or retract the legs on the upper and lower adjustments for needed height requirements.

  • Insert the four locking pins once complete.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT PLACE TENSION ON THE BRACE WITHOUT THE LOCKING PINS INSERTED

VEST AND STRAP ADJUSTMENTS

The vest is designed to fit a large range of body types. Once the straps have been pulled snugly, you can cut to the desired length and place the velcro tabs on the end of the straps. The webbing is a non-fray material and does not need any further modification.

  1. Start adjustments with the shoulder straps. Pull tight until the brace lifts underneath the armpits.

  2. Tighten the vest’s side straps until both leg extensions are centered along the side of the body.

  3. Pull the chest straps taut until the vest fits securely around the body.

  4. Fasten and secure the thigh cuffs around each leg. The magnetic buckles will engage automatically once aligned. To undo the magnetic buckles, pull the tab in the direction the arrow points on the buckle. It is recommended to be seated to easily fasten the thigh cuff straps.

  5. Twist the Click Reel to the desired tension.

POSITIONING AND PLACEMENT

When wearing the TAO, it is important to align it properly on the body in order for it to function correctly. Proper alignment can be accomplished by identifying a few important areas.

SIDE VIEW INSPECTION

  • The brace should be situated in the center of the side plane of the body. This is portrayed by the vertical green line.

  • Adjust the vest and lower back panel until the upper and lower leg extensions are centered along the side of the body including the hip and the thigh.

  • Tighten all straps until snug.

CIRCULAR PIVOT INSPECTION

Check the location of the circular pivot point (CPP). The CPP is displayed within the red circle. The horizontal and vertical green lines meet at the hinge point where natural bend occurs. The CPP should rest directly on the hip bone where the green lines intersect. You may need to extend or retract the upper or lower leg adjustments to center properly. Do not forget to remove and re-insert the four locking pins.

FINAL FITMENT INSPECTION

For maximum comfort and benefits, it is essential all slack is eliminated. The red arrows highlight common areas that require attention.

  • The top arrow indicates a tightened vest comfortably laying just under the armpit.

  • The middle arrow points to the lower back panel. Ensure that this panel makes firm contact with the lower back and is centered on the sacrum. It needs to be snug enough to provide support for the lumbar curve.

  • The bottom arrow shows the correct location of the thigh cuff. The optimal location is on the mid-to-upper thigh.

CLICK REEL OPERATION

  • Tighten the desired dial downwards to tighten the reel. This will remove the necessary slack to tighten the cable.

  • Tighten until tension or the brace resistance is strong enough to support the body in the desired position.

  • To release tension rotate the dials upwards. It is recommended to release tension with the Click Reels prior to sitting down and apply tension using the reels while standing up.

    IMPORTANT: When extending the brace height, the locking pins are removed and the click reel tension must be significantly released in order to lengthen the device. Do not remove the locking pins while brace is under tension.

CONTOUR ADJUSTMENT

Occasionally, it may be necessary after fitting the brace to make a body contour adjustment at the hips. This is rare and usually can be remedied by properly following the initial adjustment steps. In the event that the contour adjustment is needed, please follow these steps:

  • Remove the brace and release the tension on the Click Reel

  • Loosen the black knob found on the side of the circular pivot point

  • Pull the unit apart and rotate the pieces. Each tooth will give 10 degrees adjustment. One tooth adjustment is usually all that is needed for the user.

  • Push the pieces back together. Make sure the pieces are full seated into position and tighten the knob. Apply to either side in needed direction