Posture is the relative position your body assumes when upright and is a critical component of back health. Normal posture allows the back to maintain its natural curves and is facilitated by the complex back, spine and core musculature. Impaired posture typically arises from structural defects in the back, injuries, weakness and pain. Back braces may be prescribed for someone with such impairments to improve posture and prevent further problems from developing.
Rigid Brace
Rigid braces are usually prescribed for individuals with an unstable back who are in need of extra support. They help maintain stability and proper posture, typically after a back injury or surgery. Molded plastic or other rigid composite materials are commonly used to construct these braces in order to keep them lightweight and provide maximal support. The brace is shaped to match the curvature of the spine and secured across the front of your body with straps. Rigid braces are very bulky and heavy, making them quite uncomfortable to wear for long periods.
Corset Brace
The corset brace is used to provide support and maintain posture for impairments in the middle and low back areas of the spine. It is commonly prescribed to limit motion and promote healthy posture after spinal fusion surgery. The corset brace typically extends from the affected area of the back all the way to the buttocks. They are usually made from cloth material and secured in place using straps on the front or side of the corset.
Sacroiliac Belt
Sacroiliac belts are a type of brace used to stabilize the sacroiliac joint in the low back, formed by the sacrum and the pelvis. They promote healthy posture by compressing the sacroiliac joint, which in turn helps to stabilize the joint and provide pain relief. Reduced pain at this joint allows the person wearing the brace to assume a better posture with less discomfort. Sacroiliac belts wrap around the hips and are made from a semi-elastic material, which allows them to conform to the anatomical contours of the body.
Occupational Brace
Occupational braces are a subset of braces typically designed to prevent injuries related to poor posture during heavy lifting and strenuous activity. They are typically designed for the low back, but other types are available to provide shoulder and hip support. Since these braces are used daily for repetitive tasks, it is essential that they fit properly in order to provide the greatest amount of postural support. Occupational braces can be effective at preventing work-related injuries because they help serve as a reminder to maintain a safe posture while lifting. They are typically a type of corset brace worn around the low back. Lifting belts are the most commonly used occupational brace, usually constructed from a cloth or canvas type of material.
