# Seven Steps for Successful 3D Scanning

[3D Bracing,](/resources/tag/3d-bracing) [Scanning Patients,](/resources/tag/scanning-patients) [3D Scan](/resources/tag/3d-scan) 

##### 3D Scanning Tips for Accuracy

Follow these seven steps to help you capture scans that provide the most detailed information for a custom spinal orthosis.

###  3D Scanning Steps 

Print the PDF guide to keep in your clinic.

[Download Flyer](https://spinaltech.com/uploaded/uploads/ST-3DScanning-Flyer.pdf) 

1. Tight-Fitting Clothing for a Clean Scan  **1. Tight-Fitting Clothing for a Clean Scan**  

A clear scan requires a clean representation of the patient’s true anatomy, not their clothing. Skin-tight clothing (like a stockinette or tight-fitting tank) helps eliminate creases and distortion caused by baggy fabric.

**2. Neutral, Upright Stance**

For accurate anatomy and alignment, the patient should stand naturally upright with legs parallel and no angles or pelvic tilt. Avoid posed or exaggerated posture that changes the spine’s true shape.

**3. Clear Torso Visibility**

Hair must be pulled back so it doesn't block the back and torso landmarks. Anything that obstructs the scan can remove detail and reduce accuracy.

**4- Consistent Arm Positioning**

Positioning matters: keep arms out to the side at the same angle (anywhere from 45-70°), without raising or rolling the shoulders. Shoulders should stay level over the pelvis (as close as possible), and the back should not be arched. It is important that the arms do not move while scanning the complete 360° scan.

**5- Waist Belt Placement**

Use a waist belt to improve measurement accuracy. By placing the waist belt in the correct location, all measurements can easily be verified. It should be snug enough to mark the waist, but not so tight that it displaces soft tissue on overweight patients.

**6- Full Torso Coverage**

Capture the complete torso to avoid incomplete data; scan from above the axilla to well below the trochanter head, including the glutes and G-fold. Partial scans can limit what is usable for fabrication.

**7- Final Scan Check Before Submitting**

Before sending scans to Spinal Technology, review for distortion—especially severe boundary errors (“block segments”) that misrepresent anatomy. Confirm that the scan looks human, complete, and clean.

##  Get Started with Scanning 

Read through time-tested tips from David Collins, CO as published in O&P Edge

[Read Now](https://spinaltech.com/uploaded/uploads/Ten-Tips-to-Take-an-Effective-3D-Scan-for-Spinal-Bracing-The-OP-EDGE-Magazine.pdf) 

##  Get the SpinalTech3D™ ScanApp 

Download the FREE SpinalTech3D™ Scan App from the Apple store.

[Download Today](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/spinaltech3d-scan/id1441661271) 

##  Frequently Asked Questions 

- Follow these seven key steps: dress the patient in tight-fitting clothing, ensure a neutral upright stance, pull hair back, position arms anywhere from 45-70° without raising or rolling the shoulders, apply a snug waist belt, capture the full torso from above the armpit to below the hip, and review the scan carefully before submission. Consistent preparation and technique are the biggest factors in scan quality.
- Distortion is usually caused by baggy clothing, obstructions like loose hair, improper arm or shoulder positioning, or the scanner not capturing the full torso. Severe boundary errors — sometimes called "block segments" — can also misrepresent anatomy. Always review the scan before submitting to confirm it looks complete, clean, and human in form.
- The patient should stand in a natural, upright position with legs parallel and no pelvic tilt. Arms should be extended out to the sides at roughly 90° without raising or rolling the shoulders. A snug waist belt should be placed at the natural waistline to serve as a measurement reference point. The goal is a relaxed, neutral posture — not exaggerated or posed.

####  Related Articles 

#####  [SpinalTech3D™ Scan App](https://spinaltech.com/resources/spinaltech3d-scan-app) 

#####  [The stWear® Compliance Monitoring System](https://spinaltech.com/resources/stwear-compliance-monitor) 

#####  [Exacting fit & fabrication through advanced technology](https://spinaltech.com/resources/exacting-fit-fabrication-through-the-use-of-advanced-technology)