Are you wondering, “What are the benefits of using a back brace?”
I had the same question a couple of months ago when my doctor recommended a brace after I strained my back during an exercise session.
So, I’m here to share the advantages of back bracing and give you some invaluable tips on the subject.
Just keep reading.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Back braces have many health benefits for the users and can be an excellent option for back pain relief for some patients.
- You should pick the right size and type to reap the most benefits of using back braces.
- Always consult with a professional about how long to wear your back brace.
This post contains affiliate links. We earn a commission if you purchase at no extra cost.
7 Benefits of Using a Back Brace You Didn’t Know About
Back pain is a common health issue, affecting almost everyone. And the older you are, the more likely you are to suffer from back injury because joints and spinal discs wear down with age.
But how does back bracing solves this problem? Here are seven amazing benefits you can reap by wearing a back brace.
#1 Prevent Unwanted Movements
A brace, answering the question of “what does a back brace do,” can immobilize your back, preventing you from making movements, such as flexion, rotation, or extension, that can aggravate an acute injury.
Back immobilization is essential to promote post-operative healing because it prevents damage during physical activities after surgery.
A limited range of motion is also beneficial for slowing down the progression of some chronic conditions.
#2 Correct Bad Posture
Do you know that poor posture can contribute to back pain? Bad posture stresses your joints, spine, and muscle, resulting in stiffness, weakness, and pain.
As specialists from Mayo Clinic explain,
“When you practice proper posture, you keep your bones and joints in alignment.” And that is crucial for preventing future injury, strains, and pain. (1)
And how can you ensure your back is in the correct position? A back posture brace to keep your spine aligned!
However, it would be best to talk to your doctor because overuse of posture-correcting devices can result in weak postural muscles.
#3 Pain Relief
After my injury, chronic pain made even simple daily activities impossible to perform. Fortunately, a back brace proved to be more effective than I imagined.
As my doctor explained, back bracing supports the spine, vertebrae, and intervertebral discs, lessening the pressure these parts have to endure to support the body.
Less back stress means less pain. And the brace limits your range of movement, preventing painful muscle tension.
Bracing also allows the core muscles that support your back to relax, so you can change positions without worrying about your back muscles going into involuntary spasms.
Moreover, braces warm your back muscles. Heat is a great option for relaxing tight muscles, which is one of the reasons for back pain.
#4 Strong Core Muscles
Many people believe that a back brace weakens one’s core muscles.
However, Advanced Care Specialists say,
“If you use the back brace correctly, it can actually help to activate the core muscles to support the low back better.” (2)
You force your spine to straighten and tuck your abdomen by wearing a brace. In this way, your abdominal muscles take the support from your back, resulting in stronger core muscles.
Moreover, since the brace forces your spine into alignment, it can be beneficial for strengthening your back muscles.
However, there’s little evidence, according to studies, that back belt bracing is beneficial for preventing injuries, so avoid heavy lifting, especially if you have severe pain. (3)
#5 Bracing Helps A Wide Range of Medical Conditions
Using a back brace can be beneficial for many conditions that cause back pain, such as:
- scoliosis
- herniated discs
- sciatica
- weak structures in the back and spine
- poor posture
- spinal cord injuries
- muscle sprains
- osteoporosis
- whiplash
However, before you try lumbar support devices, you should discuss it with your doctor. Some types of braces can make your pain level worse.
#6 Faster Healing
As I mentioned, back braces warm your back muscles, thus reducing tension and increasing blood circulation to the injured area. Increased circulation promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
More importantly, bracing reduces back strain, allowing your injury to heal faster and not get any worse.
#7 Easy to Use
Finally, back braces are easy to wear, unlike other medical devices. No one will know you have a brace under your clothes, and you can take it on/off without much hassle.
- ✅ BYE-BYE BACK PAIN - Stot Sports back support brace is designed to offer instant and lasting relief from a herniated disc, sciatica, back pain, sore muscles, and other back conditions. It's perfect for walking, sitting, bending, stretching, pushing, lifting, or hitting the gym.
- ✅ EXCEPTIONAL BACK SUPPORT FOR YOUR ACTIVITIES - With six comfortable & discreet vertical stays, this back brace offers excellent support for your lower back during various activities, including lifting, exercising, and working. Bonus: it does not roll up.
- ✅ COMFORTABLE & FIT - Made from premium mesh fabric, this lower back support belt guarantees exceptional comfort & support while keeping you cool and sweat-free during strenuous activities. Its outstanding elasticity ensures an adjustable fit, providing flexibility and excellent support.
- ✅ ORDER NOW AND ENJOY OUR GUARANTEE - Try the Stot Sports back support belt for women and men Risk-Free with our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
- ✅ LARGE LUMBAR PAD FOR EXTRA LUMBAR SUPPORT - Get extra targeted support for your lower back with our detachable lumbar pad. Larger than other brands, easy to put on & remove, you'll boost support when needed. When not in use, store it in the included mesh bag.
- ✅CONVENIENT CARRYING & STORAGE SOLUTION INCLUDED - The package includes a mesh bag for easy storage and carrying of the brace, ensuring you never lose it after use. The bag is large enough room to take your water bottle and the belt, making it convenient to transport during outdoor activities. Hang it anywhere in your house for quick access and organized storage.
- ✅GREAT QUALITY AT A REASONABLE PRICE - Made from high-quality materials, the Stot Sports Back brace is reliable and durable and won't break the bank, offering an outstanding value for your investment.
- ✅EASY TO PUT ON AND USE! - The Stot Sports back brace is incredibly user-friendly. No special skills are required. Strap the belts around your belly and VOILÀ. Instant comfort and support at your fingertips.
3 Caution Tips for Using Back Braces
Before saying goodbye, I should give you a few caution tips about the benefits of using back braces.
#1 Pick the Right Size
You should pick the right size to get the most benefits from using a back brace. If the device is too loose or tight, it can worsen your condition.
And check this video to see how to wear a back brace properly.
#2 Consult Your Physical Therapist
While back braces are a great option for various back conditions, you should talk to a physical therapist, especially if your pain doesn’t improve in a few days.
#3 Don’t Overuse
Should you wear a back brace all day? A back brace 24×7 can worsen your pain, cause muscle weakness, and lead to skin irritation.
So, please consult your healthcare provider about how many hours per day you should wear the device and how many days/weeks to use it.
FAQs
1. When should you wear a back brace?
You should wear a back brace after consulting a doctor. It’s best for low to moderate back pain, poor posture, or an acute injury from muscle strain, sprains, and inflammation.
2. Should I sleep with or without a back brace?
You should sleep with a back brace if you have a sore back at night, and your doctor recommends it as a treatment option. But some physicians advise against it.
3. Is it OK to wear a back brace all day?
No, you shouldn’t wear a back brace all the time. It can lead to skin irritation, muscle weakness, and other health problems.
Conclusion
What are the benefits of using back braces? Braces can reduce pain, stabilize your back/spine, and provide the necessary support for pain-free movements.
However, back braces aren’t a permanent solution – you should use braces in combination with whatever treatment your doctor recommends for maximum effect.
What do you think about back braces? What are the benefits of back braces for you? Share your opinion in the comment section.
Resources:
1. Posture tips to prevent back pain [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/back-pain/sls-20076817
2. Does a Back Brace Make My Core Muscles Weak? [Internet]. Advanced Care Specialists. 2023 [cited 2023 Jun 20]. Available from: https://advancedcarespecialists.com/does-a-back-brace-make-my-core-muscles-weak/
3. Myung E, Neto JD, Murta GA, Vieira A, Lima PRG de, Lessa L, et al. Diretriz Técnica da ANAMT (DT 05): prevenção de lombalgia ocupacional por uso de cinta, suporte ou órtese lombar. Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Trabalho. 2018;16:524–31.
