Benefits Of Using A Back Brace

Studies show that 4 out of 5 adults will suffer from some form of backache in their lives. Whether back pain is a result of surgery, injury, or a chronic medical condition, a back brace provides various levels of support, reduces back pain, and enhances quality of life.

An effective, non-invasive solution to back pain, back braces have benefits that go beyond just physical support. They also foster a sense of security that allows individuals to feel more confident, move with less hesitation, and approach their daily routine with comfort and freedom.

While back braces can relieve discomfort, assist in recovery, and prevent injuries, understanding the varieties and their proper use is essential for getting the pain relief you need.

Types Of Back Braces

Back pain is a complex diagnosis, so back braces come in several styles and sizes. The main types of back braces are:

• Ridged braces – these braces are made from hard materials like plastic. They restrict movement and offer maximum support.
• Semi-rigid braces – a combination of hard and flexible materials, these braces offer more support than soft braces, but not as much as hard braces.
• Soft braces – made from elastic, breathable materials, soft braces provide light compression and stability.
• Posture correctors – Designed to encourage proper posture, these braces gently pull the shoulders back.

Five Benefits Of Using A Back Brace

When used as prescribed, back braces offer numerous benefits. The five main benefits associated with back brace usage, include:

• Pain relief – by reducing muscle strain and load on the spine
• Injury prevention – for those involved with repetitive tasks and heavy lifting
• Postural support – helps to correct posture and reduce stress on the spine, muscle, and surrounding tissue
• Enhanced healing – by restricting movement that could worsen an injury
• Increased mobility – by providing proper support and pain relief

When Are Back Braces Useful?

The reasons people wear back braces fall into three main categories, namely:

• Medical reasons
• Occupational reasons
• Lifestyle reasons

Medical Reasons

Doctors will prescribe a back brace when they want to immobilize an area, prevent strain, and promote the healing process. Some reasons that a back brace would be prescribed include:

• Post-surgery support – after spinal or lower back surgery, a rigid brace will help to immobilize the affected area and aid the healing process
• Recovery from injury – People recovering from spinal injuries like fractures or herniated discs will benefit from the stability offered by the brace and minimize the chance of further damage.
• Chronic pain relief – A back brace assists in relieving chronic pain by decreasing the pressure on the spine by redistributing body weight.
• Posture improvement – Back, neck, and shoulder pain is often caused by poor posture. Posture-correcting back braces help reduce muscle strain, realign the spine, and develop better long-term posture habits.

Occupational Reasons

People with occupations that frequently involve heavy lifting or standing for long periods, often wear back braces to reduce muscle strain and prevent lower back pain / injury. Occupations that involve heavy lifting or repetitive tasks, where wearing a back brace could be beneficial include:

• Construction
• Nursing
• Warehousing
• Furniture removal
• Restaurant Server

Lifestyle Reasons

Lightweight back braces are often worn by people who engage in sports or other activities that require a little extra back support. They are worn to prevent injury or support the spine after recovery from an injury.

Pregnancy can also lead to lower back pain. The shift in weight and change in posture often results in mild to moderate lower backache. Maternity back braces provide gentle support to the abdomen and lower back during pregnancy.

Secrets To Wearing A Back Brace Successfully

A back brace must be used correctly to maximize its benefits. A positive attitude, support from family, friends, and colleagues, and following basic back brace principles will ensure that you reap the benefits of wearing the brace.

Here are some tips for wearing a back brace successfully:

• Ensure it is fitted properly – The brace must fit snugly, but not be too tight. If it is too loose, will not provide adequate support, and too tight will impede circulation.
• It must be worn for the right reason and as directed – back braces are prescribed for specific conditions. They are also prescribed to be worn for a specific duration. Avoid wearing a brace without professional advice, and never wear a brace for extended periods unless advised, as this could lead to muscle weakness or atrophy.
• Position the brace correctly – The brace must always be positioned as instructed by healthcare providers’ advice and manufacturer instruction.
• Skincare – Some braces can be worn over a thin layer of clothing. If the brace has to be worn directly on the skin, ensure you:
  • Remove the brace periodically and expose the skin to air.
  • Ensure that the skin is always dry and clean. Avoid creams and lotions that could cause rashes and moisture to accumulate.
  • Immediately report bruises or rashes to the healthcare provider.
  • Wash the brace regularly. Rinse it properly and ensure it is completely dry before putting it back on.
• Replace worn or damaged braces – Wear and tear are inevitable, especially with regular use, To get maximum benefit and prevent further injury, always inspect the brace before every use and replace it if necessary.
• Combine its use with appropriate exercise – to avoid long-term dependency on the brace, combine it with physical therapy or other prescribed core exercises that will strengthen both back and core muscles.

Back Pain Solutions In Tamarac

Living with chronic back pain can make even the smallest daily tasks challenging and exhausting. Chronic back pain can also disrupt sleep, limit social interaction, and hinder an active lifestyle.

A back brace alleviates back pain, allowing you to regain control of your movements and daily lifestyle routine. Whether you need a it as a temporary solution or for a long-term pain management plan, Affordable Medical Supply can help you.

As an authorized dealer for multiple distributors, Affordable Medical Supply offers clients consistent and reliable service, innovative solutions, and superior medical equipment and supplies. In the business for over 40 years, we provide solid solutions to healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families alike.

Find The Perfect Back Brace

Don’t let your sore back prevent you from leading a full and productive life. For more information on what we offer, call us at 866-484-7599 today.

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