DO BACK BRACES HELP WITH BACK PAIN?

In Malaysia, the prevalence of back pain was found to be 12% with a much higher prevalence in the population at risk like commercial vehicle drivers1. Statistics also show that 10% of the world’s population suffers from lower back pain and it becomes more common as we grow older.

Wearing a back brace could be a cost-effective means of providing immediate relief from chronic back pain, and complement other interventions like pain medicine, radiofrequency nerve ablation or spinal surgery.

 

HOW A BACK BRACE CAN HELP YOU?

  • Bearing body weight
    The back brace unloads weight from your back and transfers it to the abdomen, reducing the load on your spinal structures. The decreased pressure reduces muscle tension and the pain that usually comes with it.
  • Immobilize your spine during healing
    If you have a history of back injury or spinal surgery, restricting your movement can help you recover faster. In certain conditions, immobilization is crucial for your back to heal properly. Back bracing prevents major movements of the spine that might cause further injuries.
  • Improves your posture
    Back braces also will encourage you to correct your postures and use proper body mechanics. Bad posture causes spinal weakness that may result in deformities and make you more prone to injuries.

Some studies have proven that adding a back brace to a treatment regimen results in significant improvement of mobility and reduce pain scores, compared to only relying on physical therapy or medication2.

 

GETTING A BACK BRACE?

Consultation with a professional is recommended before using a back brace. This will help determine whether a brace is likely to be beneficial, as well as the type of brace needed and how you should wear it.

It is important to remember that back braces are prescribed as an effective element of a comprehensive treatment plan and that wearing a brace on its own or wearing a brace not according to a professional’s recommendation may cause further injury or increased pain.

 

HELLO BACK BRACE, GOODBYE BACK PAIN

At Southern Crescent, we specialize in the evaluation of back support needs and give a proper guide in wearing backbraces. Get your free consultation today to keep your pain away.

Check out our selection of orthotic products here.

For any inquiries, email us at info@southerncrescent.com.my or fill out this form.

Alternatively, you can also contact us at 019-919 9334

 

References:

  1. Sivasampu, S., Yvonne, L., Norazida, A., Hwong, W., Goh, P., & Hisham, A. (2014). National Medical Care Statistics (NMCS). National Clinical Research Centre. http://www.crc.gov.my/nhsi
  2. Schott, C., Zirke, S., Schmelzle, J. M., Kaiser, C., & Fernández, L. (2018). Effectiveness of lumbar orthoses in low back pain: Review of the literature and our results. Orthopedic reviews, 10(4), 7791. https://doi.org/10.4081/or.2018.7791