1. Know They Can Relieve Pain During Daily Activities
Fibromyalgia causes inexplicable muscle pain that can be very debilitating. The large muscles in the back are particularly vulnerable due to their size and involvement in all upright posture. Keeping the head and shoulders supported for extended periods of time can get tiring and uncomfortable. Additionally, postural muscles that are weak from disuse can become strained under the weight of the shoulders and torso. A back brace takes the burden off of muscles that are weakened or strained from fibromyalgia, which in turn may relieve pain and discomfort.
2. Never Wear a Back Brace for More Than 24 Hours
You can get too much of a good thing. While wearing a back brace to ease fibromyalgia pain may help you get through your daily activities, wearing it constantly can further weaken the involved muscles. Because the brace provides postural support, the large muscles in the back do not work as hard. Over time with constant brace wear, these muscles are used less and less, and something called disuse atrophy can occur. This is when muscles grow weak from lack of use or movement. To avoid this, back braces should be worn on a schedule. Your doctor or therapist can advise you on the most appropriate times for wear.
3. Keep In Mind Back Braces May Cause Discomfort
Because they are designed to provide spinal support, back braces tend to fit rather snugly against the torso. Some people with fibromyalgia may be sensitive to the brace's hard edges, or they may be unable to tolerate constant pressure on the spine and abdomen. Some users even report sensitivity to magnets, which some back brace manufacturers have integrated into their design. Before making a purchase, it is a good idea to try the brace on. This can help you anticipate any potential discomfort.
4. Understand There Are Ways to Make Your Brace More Comfortable
It can take several hours of wear before a back brace starts begins to irritate a fibromyalgia sufferer. In many cases, minimizing friction or pressure on the skin will help. Some options are wearing a shirt under the back brace, applying soft covering like moleskin, or even using adhesive foam on the inside of the brace. If you are unable to tolerate your back brace for any reason, you should contact your physician or the vendor from which it was purchased to see if it can be adjusted to better suit your needs.
5. Remember Different Styles Work for Different People
Back braces range in support from a snug elastic binder to a hard, fitted shell. The support level you will need depends on the degree of your weakness or pain, in addition to the level of pressure you can tolerate. Your doctor or a physical therapist can advise you on the most appropriate back brace for your needs.
