Back braces can alleviate mild to severe pain by restricting movement, strengthening your back muscles, and aligning your spine. As effective as putting on a back brace is, it will only work if worn correctly.
Most back braces often come with instructions on how to wear them from the manufacturer or doctor. But if you are yet to buy one and want to know how it works, below is a comprehensive guide on how to properly wear a back brace.
A Step-By-Step Guide on Wearing a Brace for Back Pain Relief
Step 1 – Assume a Natural Position
The number one mistake most people make when putting on a back brace is to suck their stomach in. Doing so often leads to an incorrect fit. Assume a natural position so that the brace fits you perfectly.
Step 2 – Align the Brace Strategically to Your Back
Your brace should touch both your back and tailbone. From the tailbone throughout your back is where the core muscles are located. To get relief from pain, that’s where the brace should be positioned.
Step 3 – Wrap the Straps around Your Torso
There are two main crisscross straps on a back brace. These should be wrapped against each side of the torso. Ensure the brace isn’t wrapped too tightly to the point that it’s uncomfortable. Or too loosely to the extent that it can easily slip out.
Depending on the design of your back brace, you can adjust the pressure using two pull bars located on either side. If there are no pull tabs, there should be additional straps that can also be used to adjust tightness and pressure.
Step 4 – Let the Brace Do Its Job
Once worn correctly, the brace will prevent you from making movements that can aggravate back pain. You should feel more relieved after a couple of hours.
Wearing a brace for back pain isn’t hard. The first time can be confusing. But once you get the hang of it. It becomes much easier and simpler. Patients experiencing acute back pain may need an extra set of hands to fit the back brace properly.
If you are alone, you can place the brace on a chair with the straps unfolded. You can then sit down, hold the straps and stand up before wrapping them.
Tips on How to Properly Wear a Back Brace
With the best back brace, you can get rid of back pain for good. A lot of people benefit significantly from wearing back braces. But during the first few days, it’s normal to feel discomfort. Therefore, your doctor may advise you not to wear the brace 24/7 until you get used to it. As you begin the journey to treating back pain with a brace, here are a couple of tips that may come in handy.
- Choose the correct size. Size matters a lot when you are shopping for a back brace. Before buying one, it’s advisable to take measurements of your torso. And then, use these figures to find a brace that snugly fits.
- Never hesitate to ask for help if you can’t put on the brace by yourself. Instead of wearing it incorrectly, you should ask a family member or friend to assist. That’s the only way you can be assured of reaping all the benefits of the brace.
- It’s a good idea to wear a shirt under the brace. Even the best back braces made with quality materials can cause skin irritation. As the brace applies pressure to the skin, sweat may build up and lead to irritation. Wear a clean and well-fitting shirt underneath. Pure cotton is an ideal choice.
- For the brace to treat back pain, you may have to wear it for a considerable period. Because these braces put more pressure on the skin, blisters or some redness may develop. Always ensure that the area covered by your brace is clean. This prevents the entry of dirt or bacteria. Should you notice any skin condition, get in touch with your physician.
- Do not over-tighten the brace. When it’s too tight, you will feel more uncomfortable, and it can be challenging to get work done when you are in such a condition.
- Stick to loose and comfortable clothing. Just because you are wearing a back brace doesn’t mean you should lose your sense of fashion. You can still dress up nicely, as long as the clothing is breathable.
- Avoid deviating from the instructions provided by your doctor. If you feel uncomfortable, you can schedule another visit and re-adjust the initial measurements. When you change the tightness by yourself, it may not be suitable for your current condition.
The Drawbacks of Incorrectly Putting on a Back Brace
A back brace is a pretty nifty tool that can treat back pain. However, if worn incorrectly, it can introduce more problems. A back brace won’t eliminate back pain when you wear it wrongly. It can even make it more severe. It can also lead to discomfort.
Final Thoughts
From the above guide on how to properly wear a back brace, we hope you have learned everything you need to know. As important as wearing your brace correctly is, you also need to take proper care of it. Clean and sterilize it regularly. Don’t forget to schedule routine checkups with your doctor even after the brace has reduced your back pain.