A spinal device (10) including a variable-length member (12) including a ratchet mechanism (14) that has an operative configuration that allows a change in length of the variable-length member (12) in one direction and prevents a change in length of the variable-length member (12) in an opposite direction, wherein the variable-length member (12) includes polyaxial-joint attachment members (32) for attachment to bone, which permit pivoting movement of the attachment members (32) about more than one pivoting axis, characterised by a force applicator (40) operative to adjust or advance the ratchet mechanism (14).
