An orthopedic device has first and second elongate struts each having a strap coupling member, and a flexible strap securing to the first and second struts by the strap coupling members. A semi-rigid and resiliently bendable expander is connected to and spans a predetermined length between the struts. The expander provides two main configurations for the orthopedic device including maintaining the first and second struts in a generally flat configuration relative to one another and a curved configuration upon application of a load on the first and second struts. The expander reverts to a flat configuration upon removal of a load or from the first and second struts.
