How to Use and Wear a Lower Back Brace?

QI Spine Clinic, 1 week ago

Lower back pain is a common condition for which medical help is often sought. Sometimes, it requires using a back brace or lumbar support belt. Patients who’ve had back surgery often wear a brace to support their recovery after the procedure. Different back issues need specific types of braces, so they come in many shapes and sizes. But how to wear a back brace for lower back pain? To get the results you want, this article helps you know its purpose, when you should put it on, and how to take care of it.

When Should I Wear a Lower Back Brace?

A back brace is usually prescribed on a temporary basis, depending on conditions affecting one’s lower back. An orthopedist, spine specialist, or any other physiotherapist may prescribe using one in the following scenarios:

• Moderate to severe lower back pain: A back brace can stabilize and limit further strain on your back muscles and spine.
• Post-surgery recovery: In cases of spinal surgery, a lumbar brace will provide stability and support to the spine while it heals.
• Spinal instability due to trauma: A brace provides much-needed stability when there is either spinal instability or trauma.
• Vertebral compression fractures: A brace relieves the pressure from vertebral fractures by holding the spine in a neutral position.
• Postural pain: It helps correct and maintain good posture, which may reduce pain emanating from postural imbalances.
• Degenerative scoliosis: In the case of scoliosis, the lumbar belt supports the spine and helps avoid further curving.

Each condition may require different guidelines for wearing a lower back brace, which should always be followed as per your doctor’s instructions.

How Many Hours a Day Should I Wear a Lumbar Back Brace?

How long one should wear a lumbar back brace depends on the patient’s condition and the healthcare provider’s advice. Following are a few common scenarios in which it’s suggested:

• For pain relief: Wear it most of the day, especially during travel or strenuous activity that may cause discomfort.
• Postural correction: For conditions such as scoliosis, the orthosis must be worn for over 20 hours daily until skeletal maturity is achieved; it is then generally continued at night.
• Post-surgery: Some spinal surgery patients must wear a back brace at all times, except when bathing or cleansing their skin. If you have had major surgery where there is metal implanted, your doctor may recommend continuous use of the brace throughout the day for 1-2 months.

Make sure to consult your healthcare provider to confirm how many hours a day you should wear your lumbar brace, how to wear a back brace and whether it is safe to wean off the brace over time.

How to Wear a Lumbar Brace?

In order for a lumbar brace to offer maximum support, you must wear it properly. Key steps for wearing a back brace for lower back pain are listed below:

• There is a manual for how to use back support belt. Every step in the manual should be followed to understand the positioning properly.
• Some braces are very hard to get into, and one shouldn’t hesitate seeking help from a caregiver to complete the process if necessary.
• The brace should fit snugly over the affected area without discomfort. A proper fitting will provide stability with limited flexibility.
• The belt is always worn over a thin layer of clothing, such as a shirt or undershirt, to avoid any skin irritation or rash.
• Avoid constrictive clothing with zippers or buttons which may press on the brace and cause discomfort.
• Always wear the brace for the prescribed number of hours. Take off the brace and consult your health professional if you feel itching, pain, or discomfort.

Potential Side Effects of Back Braces

Though useful, a lumbar belt can cause a number of adverse effects if worn for extended periods of time without being clinically advised. Some of these possible adverse effects include:

• When a brace is worn for an extended period of time, the lower back muscles may become weaker and more reliant on the brace.
• The constant and uninterrupted wearing of the belt can lead to skin rashes.
• It may be difficult for patients to undergo appropriate muscular rehabilitation if they become unduly dependent on the brace.

To avoid these complications, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations closely and discontinue brace use as advised.

Consult QI Spine Clinic for Professional Guidance

If you suffer from lower back pain and want to use a lumbar support belt, consult with the specialists at QI Spine Clinic. Our team of experts will, when required, determine the appropriate line of back pain treatment for you and advise you on how to effectively use back support belts to ensure efficient recovery.