Start by talking to a health care provider about which category of brace is right for you. Your condition may require a prescription for a custom-fit brace that follows your spine’s curvature. If instead your doctor assesses that an over-the-counter brace will work for you, they may have suggestions about style, brand, and features to include or avoid. You can find many over-the-counter braces online or in drug stores.
When searching for the best back brace for you, remember that comfort is important. Discomfort will likely deter you from wearing your brace, which will reduce any benefits from bracing.
How Do I Use a Back Brace Correctly?
Before you put on your back brace, make sure your skin is clean and dry. If you use lotion, ensure that it is fully rubbed into your skin. Put on a clean, dry undershirt before you put on your brace. One you have an undershirt on, take your time in putting on the brace. Adjust the compression to the level you and your doctor have determined, and check any tabs, cords, panels, wings, or supports for proper positioning and optimal support and comfort.
Wear loose-fitting clothing over your brace so that you don’t overheat, as sweat can result in chafing from your brace. If you find yourself uncomfortably hot, you may be tempted to remove your brace sooner than your doctor initially recommends. Your doctor will likely suggest that you wear your back brace only once a week, so try to plan your wardrobe accordingly.
Isn’t a Back Brace Going to Look Weird on Me?
Many modern back braces come in discreet styles and dark colors to minimize noticeability. If your doctor recommends an over-the-counter back brace, do a quick online search to see your options. You’ll find that there are categories such as back braces for men, back braces for women, back braces for children, plus-size back braces, lumbar support braces, posture correctors, and bestseller back braces. Filtering by category, in addition to your doctor’s recommendations, can help you narrow down your options and make an informed choice.
Ensuring a proper fit and design – whether for an over-the-counter support such as a copper fit back brace, a neoprene back brace, a back support belt, or a medical back brace prescribed by your doctor – will help you feel as comfortable as possible. Working to find a high level of comfort in your brace can help reduce your anxiety about what to wear with your brace or the thought of others seeing you while wearing your brace.
When Should I Wear My Back Brace?
If your doctor recommends only wearing your brace for a few hours at a time, ask about the ideal setting. Depending on your condition, you and your doctor may determine that, for example, a back brace for the car or a posture corrector for work while you sit at a desk may serve you most effectively.
What Can I Do While Wearing My Back Brace?
When wearing your brace, you may feel that you can take on heavier-duty manual work, but you should take care to not over-exert yourself. Stay aware of your physical limits and allow the brace to help you achieve optimal function within safe, reasonable boundaries. If you are unsure about manual labor, exercise, or another physically-exerting task, ask your doctor about the potential risks before you begin.
What About Risks or Side Effects?
As mentioned, back braces can cause minor skin irritation. In most cases, wearing an undershirt over healthy, dry skin will keep this from happening. If you notice any rashes or blisters on the skin your brace has come into contact with, notify your doctor.
Additionally, overuse of a brace may reduce your muscle strength. Only wear the brace as often as your doctor tells you to do so. If you notice increased discomfort or weakness on the days you are not wearing your brace, mention this to your doctor. You should also notify your doctor if you feel that you need additional treatment or education to get the most out of wearing your back brace.
Outside of these considerations, properly-worn braces show few negative side effects (28).
Summary
Some conditions require custom-fit braces made by an orthotist. Other patients will find that an over-the-counter back brace or lumbar support provides pain relief. In order to achieve optimal results, keep your skin clean and dry, take your time adjusting your brace each time you wear it, and heed your doctor’s instructions regarding the type of brace you need and how often to wear it.
