Helical springs used to apply a torque or store rotational energy are commonly referred to as "torsion springs." The two most common types are single and double-bodied springs. Torsion springs are found in clothespins, window shades, counterbalance mechanisms, ratchets and various types of machine components. They are also used as couplings between concentric shafts, such as in a motor and pump assembly. Torsion springs are generally mounted around a shaft or arbor, and must be supported at three or more points. Various kinds of ends are available to facilitate mounting.

Torsion springs are stressed in bending. Rectangular wire is more efficient in bending than round wire, but due to the premium cost of rectangular wire, round wire is preferred. If possible, a torsion spring should always be loaded in a direction that causes its body diameter to decrease. The residual forming stresses are favorable in this direction, but unfavorable when the spring is loaded in a direction that increases body diameter. Unless there are unfavorable residual stresses in the end bends, springmakers normally heat-treat these springs at a low temperature to stabilize the end positions rather than to fully stress relieve them. If the direction of loading tends to increase body diameter, the springmaker should be advised to stress relieve the springs.