Back braces are an old cure for an old problem. Back braces have been around for centuries and back braces for the lower back were used as far back as 2000 BC.
While the back braces of only a decade ago were heavy and restrictive, today's back braces are made of lighter-weight, flexible materials designed to relieve the pressure on the back while still allowing a normal range of movement.
Who Uses a Back Brace?
People who walk a lot or do physical labor develop good muscle tone in their backs and legs. People who sit most of the day lose that muscle tone and their backs are the first place to show it. Many back problems develop over long periods of time from poor posture, overexertion in work and play, sitting incorrectly at the desk or the steering wheel, or pushing, pulling and lifting things carelessly. Much like a tension headache, back pain can also result from general tension, stress and lack of sleep.
Individuals often use back braces as the result of injuries from sports, accidents and falls. Back pain can also be the result of smoking, long-term exposure to vibration or obesity. Back braces not only provide pain relief, but often will help to break the psychological cycle of back pain, which often leads to depression and inactivity, which in turn exacerbates back problems.
Do Back Braces Help Back Pain?
Back braces are commonly used to treat back pain. Many people who use back braces report that back braces provide warmth, comfort and support to the back. Using a back brace which puts direct pressure over the irritated area can sometimes provide instant relief.
It is important to also treat back pain with appropriate stretching and exercise. In addition, care must be taken in proper lifting techniques. Improperly bending over to lift can strain the lower back. Proper lifting keeps the back straight while you bend with the knees.
The Best Back Brace is Your Own Muscles
If muscles are not used at all, they will weaken over time. To avoid this, once any injury has healed sufficiently, use a back brace only to support the back during any activity that requires protection for the spine.
It's best to use a brace or corset only for short periods or activities that strain the back. The best back brace is your own "muscle brace" which you can build through back strengthening and stability exercises.
