Do Back Braces Help Lower Back Pain?

Does your back hurt? A lot of people experience different types of back pain that are often triggered by various unhealthy practices. Sitting for too long, pushing heavy loads or carrying things in the wrong way can put too much pressure on your spine and back muscles. Some people experience back pain that is not related to any physical injury. Muscles can get weaker with age and might not be able to support your spine. In these instances, using the best back brace could provide the necessary support and relief by stabilizing and reducing stress on the spine. Herniated discs can also trigger lower back pain that results from the compression on the nerves.

Back pain is very common and most people will suffer from its symptoms at some point in their lives. A minor shift in daily activities and practices can relieve the pain. However, some people suffer from chronic back pain that actually affects the quality of their lives. The pain can be dull or sharp and could last for days or weeks. In some cases it spreads up or down. The worst thing about this kind of pain is that it doesn’t respond to conventional treatments. When left untreated, it can deprive you of living your life the way you want.

Unlike the common belief, too much rest can actually be bad for your back pain. You need to stay active but you might not be able to do that because of the pain. A back brace can allow you to move safely.

How can a Back Brace Help to Reduce Back Pain?

A back brace is an effective treatment for chronic lower back pain. It is safer and less invasive than back surgeries that involve a lot of risks. Braces also help with correcting or preventing spinal deformities that can cause a lot of pain.

Most back braces offer 3-point force systems that help to straighten the spine, thus reducing back pain. They are especially useful when you are recovering from muscles injury as they help to keep your spine in a straight and stable position. This gives your muscles the chance to heal properly after an injury.

Back braces fit around the waist and are usually secured by straps or Velcro. They don’t move and will keep your spine in an aligned position. They sometimes feature a plastic or steel plate that presses against the middle of the lower back thus providing more support.

Braces that offer lumbar support are easy to buy. You can find a lot of good models that don’t cost much. They are available online and at different drug stores. Some people need custom made braces that are specifically designed to fit their spinal curvature. Scoliosis and kyphosis patients can benefit from using special back braces. These usually cost more than the generic ones but are very useful. Not only will they cure the pain, but they will also prevent the condition from progressing and can even correct it.

How Should You Use a Back Brace?

As soon as you feel the pain, you can put on your back brace. It might take some time to get used to the feeling but after a while, you will feel extremely comfortable wearing your brace. You might need to wear your brace over a shirt if you have sensitive skin. But mostly, there will be no problem wearing your brace comfortably.

If your back brace offers adequate support, is properly worn and is not too tight there should be no problem wearing it every day. As a matter of fact, it can improve the quality of your life. Most braces are easy to conceal and be worn comfortably under clothes.

However, some people misuse their back braces. They wear them for extended periods of time, tie them too tight or don’t pay attention to giving their skin the time to breathe. As a result, some people develop skin rashes, suffer from gastrointestinal disorders or experience muscles weakness. If you start experiencing any of these symptoms then it is time to reconsider your back brace. You might want to consult a professional about the best way to use your back brace, or you might want to pick another model.

If your back pain is severe, then you have to consult a doctor. A back brace will not help you if the pain is severe or if you need professional medical help. It would, however, help you once the pain subsidizes to a tolerable level.