Back support belts are recommended for those who perform regular lifting of heavy objects, whether at work or in personal endeavors such as weightlifting for exercise. The "best" belt is subjective to your physical abilities, lifting demands and comfort level, but there are some key attributes to look for when selecting a back support belt. Back support belts should not be confused with support braces prescribed by doctors for spine injuries and rehabilitation.
Back Support Area
Most back support belts are designed to provide support to the lumbar region of the spine. This area is highly susceptible to injury when lifting. True belt models wrap around the waist tightly, increasing intra-abdominal pressure. IAP is thought to counterbalance compressing forces on the spine. Other belts use suspenders to further support the back. Some belts rise higher than the waist, extending up into the mid-back.
Specific Belt Designs
Belts come in various material compositions. Leather or plastic comprise most weightlifting belts. A thicker belt creates more rigidity, thus more potential support. Nylon and plastic are more commonly used in employer-required and consumer belts. A belt that has too much flexibility is not going to provide much support. A good-fitting belt will stay in place without the need for suspenders, although some people find the suspender style more comfortable.
Choosing Your Belt
Talk to your doctor if you have a back injury or experience chronic back pain. A full evaluation will determine if a back support belt is best for you or if you need a more elaborate spinal brace. Most consumers should try on several belts and move with them to get a feel for the belt and performing typical tasks with it on. Nylon and rubber belts are durable but often designed to allow more flexibility for activities other than lifting. Leather weight belts are more restrictive, focusing pressure and support through specific exercises.
Need for a Belt?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health states there is not enough conclusive evidence to determine if support belts actually help prevent back injuries. In fact, some evidence suggests that those wearing back support belts may actually increase chances of injury, relying on the belt instead of using proper lifting form. Although empirical evidence regarding the benefits of these belts is still inconclusive, many employers err on the side of caution, requiring employees to wear them when lifting. Focus on good lifting techniques such as lifting with your knees and not bending your back and soliciting help for very heavy or awkward items.
