Orthopedic Braces for Back Support

Have you been experiencing random or consistent back pain? This can be caused by a number of different factors. Back pain is commonly seen in those who work desk jobs, construction jobs, and old age. There are a number of other reasons for experiencing back pain, but these are some of the most common reasons. Orthopedic braces for back support from Preferred Med Supply will help with your back pains.

Before ordering an orthopedic brace, it’s always a good idea to consult a doctor to see what back brace would best suit your needs. Having a professional evaluation will also help determine how it should be worn and how long you should have it on.

Orthopedic braces are usually prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment. Wearing a brace without having a doctor’s recommendation can result in further injury or increased pain in your back.

When Orthopedic Braces for Back Support Help You

Orthopedic braces for back support can be used for other reasons other than surgical treatments. If you suffer from one of the following conditions, a back brace can help you heal and relieve pain from the following conditions listed below.

Post-Operative Healing

An orthopedic back brace could be prescribed to you following a back or spine surgery to help prevent pressure on the spinal column, add stability, and limit the movements in your back. Surgeons have agreed that back braces are generally used for limiting the activity and movement your back could experience. Back braces should generally be worn for about 3 to 8 weeks following a back-related surgery.

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

Isthmic Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the vertebrae slips forward over the vertebra below it. Using an orthopedic back brace will reduce the amount of movement the vertebra makes which will improve your walking ability and reduce pain levels.

Vertebral Compression Fractures

Using a back brace for a vertebral compression fracture will make sure to reduce the number of micro-motions at the fracture site and reduce the pressure put on the spinal column.

Muscle Tension and Strain

Back braces will sometimes be recommended for those who experience lower back pain and muscle strains. A back brace will help alleviate muscle tension by reducing the amount of pressure put on the spine. This reduces the amount of strength the muscles have to use in order to support the spinal column. The brace will also produce heat which naturally relaxes tense muscles. You shouldn’t wear a brace for more than 2 to 4 days for muscle tension-related injuries.

This is only a small number of back-related injuries that an orthopedic brace could be used for.

In some cases, a back brace will not be recommended if there is a treatment that is seen as more effective. These can include physical therapy, heat or ice application, or pain medication.

Back braces are not the solution for all back-related pain. A study has shown that patients who experience a specific pain are more likely to report pain relief from a back brace than those who don’t have specific back pain.

Using Orthopedic Braces for Back Support Correctly

There are a few factors to consider when wearing a back brace to make sure it works as planned. These are important guidelines to follow if you want the most from orthopedic braces for back support.

Wear The Brace as Advised

If you want to notice a difference in your level of back pain, make sure to wear your back brace as advised. This can be difficult for some people due to discomfort or interference with daily activities or tasks. If a brace doesn’t fit right or is causing discomfort, bring it to your doctor so they can correctly adjust it.

See Your Brace as a Positive Thing

A study has found that viewing your brace as a positive thing will make the brace more effective. Gaining encouragement from friends, family, and co-workers could make a better outcome from using the brace.

Don’t Rely on Your Brace for the Long Term

Orthopedic back braces are generally only supposed to be worn for a short period of time while your body heals. Relying too heavily on a brace for a long time can create muscle atrophy which can cause an increased chance of injury and make pains even worse.

If a doctor doesn’t think a brace is necessary, then you probably shouldn’t wear one. Doing so can result in further injury or worsened back pain.