When should I wear a back brace?
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The concept of spinal bracing has been around for some time. Braces made of materials from plaster, metal, and plastics are available and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, strengths, and applications. The concept is to limit the motion and function of an area of the spine that is painful and abnormal.
Today, many surgeons use back or neck braces after a spinal fusion operation. Though simple in concept – rest and immobility is good – in reality too much bracing can cause more harm than good. Further, most braces will not completely immobilize the spine. It can however affect the way we walk, sit, function, and our posture. We begin to rely on the brace to do what our bones, muscles, and joints should be doing. Many athletes and workers like to wear “soft braces” or lumbar supports while active. This is fine but only if an ongoing exercise program is also being performed. Bracing is a form of treatment that must be managed by professionals who can weigh all aspects of the brace treatment and select the proper type to use and its duration. Most braces require a prescription.
Bracing can treat the following conditions:
