Flexible elastic braces are primarily used for the lower back. They typically include vertical stays (plastic) at the front, back, or sides of the brace to provide gentle immobilization and to help the brace retain it's shape (prevent it from rolling when you put it on).
They are made from elastic knitted fabrics designed to be breathable, skin friendly, and with soft edges that won't dig into your skin to allow for more comfortable wearing times. Most designs include velcro fastening, side pulls, and/or hand straps that make it easier for you to put the brace on (as you wrap it around you at the front).
Some designs include a lumbar pad (at the back) to provide a massage effect to the muscles of the lower back with every movement to help to stimulate blood flow to reduce tension in the lumbar region. Relaxation of these muscles can also aid in pain management.
Understand Your Diagnosis
Back braces are used to manage a wide range of conditions so it's important that you see your doctor or physiotherapist before using a brace to confirm your diagnosis and location of injury.
Many people assume that the most 'immobilizing' brace is best, but that is not always the case. It is important to select a brace that is suitable for your specific diagnosis and for that reason, we do not recommend an immobilizing back brace unless a specific diagnosis warrants it.
If you have general low back pain, try a flexible, elastic brace. For a diagnosis like a herniated disc, a semi-rigid immobilization brace would be recommended in addition to exercise.
In selecting a back brace, the area of injury should be closer to the centre of where the brace would sit on your spine so that stabilization can occur above and below the injury site. Wearing a brace where the upper edge of the brace just touches the site of injury would not assist you, and could even cause more discomfort. If you know the specific vertebrae that is affected, we can assist you in locating the best option. Contact our Healthcare Team for assistance.
Keep Your Back Strong!
Back braces can help you manage pain, recover from an injury, and protect your back during activity. However, if you rely on a back brace too much you risk weakening your core and back muscles. It's important to keep your back strong, and follow an exercise or rehab program for strengthening and stretching given to you by your doctor or physical therapist. This is important to help you support your spine, avoid poor posture, lower back pain and future muscle injuries.
Length of Use
We recommend using the braces only during activities that typically cause you pain. The general recommendation is not to wear your back brace all day long. However for more serious diagnoses, a physiotherapist or physician may approve the use of the brace for longer duration use.
Protect Your Skin
It’s important to keep the skin under the brace as dry as possible. Excess moisture can cause irritation and lead to sores. Avoid using creams and lotions on the skin beneath the brace. If skin irritation is a problem for you, wear a thin t-shirt or other tight fitting clothing underneath the brace.
Keep it Clean
It's a good idea to keep your back brace free of dirt and bacteria. Most back braces can be cleaned with water and mild soap, washing by hand. Before you clean your brace remove any panels and padding to clean those parts separately. Never use bleach or harsh detergents on your brace. Make sure your brace is dry before using it again.
Many of the materials used in the construction of back braces can collect debris around areas like velcro straps. Use a lint roller to remove lint from your back brace to ensure that the straps work properly and can secure the brace properly.
Navigating the world of back braces can be overwhelming when you're dealing with spine issues or recovering from an injury. With so many types of back braces available — from flexible supports to rigid frames — finding the right one means you need to understand your specific needs and condition. This is often easier said than done.
At PrimeCare, we’re here to help. We specialize in custom spinal orthoses designed to provide proper support while maximizing comfort. Our experienced team works closely with patients throughout New Mexico to ensure each orthotic device meets their unique requirements for healing and daily function.
Back braces are external devices worn around the torso to support the spine, restrict movement, and reduce pain. They're prescribed for various conditions, including spinal fractures, scoliosis, post-surgery recovery, and chronic low back pain.
Back braces can be divided into categories based on their rigidity (flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid) and their anatomical coverage (lumbar, thoracic, cervical, or combinations). The specific type recommended depends on your condition, the degree of immobilization needed, and your daily activities.
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It's important to note that back braces are a type of orthotic device. In other words, orthotics are externally applied devices used to modify the structural and functional characteristics of the neuromuscular and skeletal systems. While many people think of foot orthotics, spinal orthotics (back braces) are equally important in treating various spine conditions.
Back braces are also classified by which part of the spine they support:
Back braces serve different functions depending on the patient's condition:
The function of each brace type directly impacts which option is best for specific treatment goals. This means you’ll need to select the right brace as it affects recovery time and results. As spinal conditions change, patients often move through a sequence of braces — starting with more restrictive designs during acute phases and shifting toward more flexible supports during later rehabilitation stages. These transitions are best guided by a professional.
Different spine conditions need different levels of support and movement restriction. Here's how back braces are categorized by their rigidity:
Flexible braces are made from elastic or soft flexible material and provide gentle compression and minimal restriction of movement.
Semi-rigid braces combine flexible materials with firmer supports, such as plastic stays or metal bars.
Rigid braces are made from hard materials like molded plastic and offer maximum support and movement restriction.
Different medical conditions often require specific back brace solutions, such as:
Specialized back braces help target specific conditions with features designed to address the unique challenges of each spinal problem. Your care team will provide guidance on which is best for your situation.
It's worth distinguishing between true orthotic back braces and other types of back supports. Here’s what you should know:
Remember that true orthotic back braces are medical devices that should be fitted by specialists who understand spinal biomechanics and can customize the device to your specific anatomy and condition.
Selecting the appropriate back brace involves several important considerations:
Your doctor should determine if a brace is necessary based on your condition. They can provide a diagnosis and recommendation for the most appropriate type of support for you.
Scoliosis needs different support than muscle strain or fractures. The nature and severity of your spine condition will dictate whether you need a rigid brace like a Boston brace or support that’s more flexible.
Your lifestyle affects which brace will work best for you. Active individuals may need more flexible options during the day, while those with sedentary jobs might tolerate more restrictive support.
Proper sizing ensures effectiveness without causing new problems. The brace should support your spine without creating pressure points or restricting breathing.
Short-term use has different priorities than long-term wear. For example, if your recovery period is brief, maximum support might be the focus. In other cases, extended use requires more attention to comfort and convenience.
Complementary physical therapy is a great way to prevent muscle weakness. Long-term bracing can lead to atrophy, so maintaining muscle tone is essential for overall spine health.
Remember that selecting and fitting a back brace should be done with professional guidance, not something that you do alone. A certified orthotist can help ensure your brace fits properly and meets your specific medical needs.
Selecting the right back brace involves matching your specific spine condition with the right level of support and restriction. While back braces play a valuable role in recovery and pain management, they work best as part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes proper medical supervision and often physical therapy to maintain muscle strength.
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