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About Back Braces

Neck and back pain, scoliosis, back strain – each of these acute conditions may justify the use of a back brace to relieve symptoms or to prevent a particular condition from getting worse.

But when are back braces effective, and when might they be of no use at all?

Consider the case of childhood scoliosis. Bracing is often recommended to prevent spinal curves from getting worse and a brace is often recommended until a child’s skeleton has stopped growing. Although in the initial phases, the brace may appear to correct the situation, this is hardly the case. In fact, in the majority of cases of bracing alone, once the child is no longer wearing the brace, the curve reverts to its original pattern.

Additionally, many children are prohibited from participation in sports or other physical activities due to wearing a brace, or they remove the brace so they can participate in these types of activities.

Many adults who experience back pain purchase lumbar support braces at their local pharmacies. This type of back brace is designed to take weight off the lower back, improve posture and/or limit movement that could further aggravate the condition causing the pain. These types of braces limit the use of certain muscles that support the spine. Thus, long term usage can cause supporting muscles to atrophy and weaken, actually increasing the possibility of injury!

There is some evidence that suggests that the use of braces may help relieve new or acute cases of back pain. Other research indicates they may actually provide no better treatment than no treatment at all. Every case varies. Instead, strengthening the muscles that support the lower back through exercise (and regular chiropractic care) makes the most sense.

If your employer insists that you wear a brace on the job, ask about ways to strengthen the muscles in your lower back and abdomen so the brace doesn't cause the very problem it was designed to prevent. And get adjusted regularly!