How to Use a Back Brace

A back brace is a form-fitting device that wraps around your trunk to support your lower back, abdomen, and hips. You may need to wear a back brace to relieve back pain or to correct a medical condition related to the back, such as abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis).

A back brace can maintain or correct the shape of the spine and prevent a spinal problem from getting worse. A back brace can also take pressure off the layers of tissue (disks) between the bones of the spine (vertebrae).

You may need a back brace to keep your back and spine in place while you heal from an injury or recover from surgery.

Back braces can be either plastic (rigid brace) or soft elastic (dynamic brace). A rigid brace usually covers both the front and back of the entire upper body. A soft brace may cover only the lower back and abdomen and may fasten with self-adhesive elastic straps. Your health care provider will recommend the proper brace for your needs and medical condition.

What are the risks?

• A back brace may not help if you do not wear it as directed by your health care provider. Be sure to wear the brace exactly as instructed in order to prevent further back problems.
• Wearing the brace may be uncomfortable at first. You may have trouble sleeping with it on. It may also be hard for you to do certain activities while wearing the brace.

How to use a back brace

Different types of braces will have different instructions for use. Follow instructions from your health care provider about:

• How to put on the brace.
• When and how often to wear the brace. In some cases, braces may need to be worn for long stretches of time. For example, a brace may need to be worn for 16–23 hours a day when used for scoliosis.
• How to take off the brace.
• Any safety tips you should follow when wearing the brace. This may include:
  • Moving carefully while wearing the brace. The brace restricts your movement and could lead to additional injuries.
  • Using a cane or walker for support if you feel unsteady.
  • Sitting in high, firm chairs. It may be difficult to stand up from low, soft chairs.

How to care for a back brace

• Do not let the back brace get wet. Typically, you will remove the brace for bathing and then put it back on afterward.
• If you have a rigid brace, be sure to store it in a safe place when you are not wearing it. This will help to prevent damage.
• Clean or wash the back brace with mild soap and water as told by your health care provider.

Contact a health care provider if:

• Your brace gets damaged.
• You have pain or discomfort when wearing the back brace.
• Your back pain is getting worse or is not improving over time.