Nearly 75 percent of Americans will experience some form of back pain. In some instances, using a back brace can relieve discomfort, especially when the discomfort is temporary, such as after surgery or because of a muscle strain. 

What is a Back Brace?

A back brace is a device that helps support the spine and limit motion to prevent further back pain. It pressures the torso to help shift weight away from the spine. Some braces also have heating capabilities to help ease muscle tightness that may contribute to back discomfort. 

 

Back braces typically fall into one of three categories:

 

  • Flexible braces consist of a soft material like cotton or neoprene to offer the wearer more movement than other braces. 
  • Semi-rigid braces may contain cotton but have rigid panels along the brace's front, back, or sides.
  • Rigid braces have rigid panels and may also have hard plastic or metal bars outside the brace.

What Types of Pain Do Back Braces Support?

All back braces provide various levels of support to help with different types of back pain. A few of the most common reasons people use back braces are to support with discomfort from surgeries, spinal conditions, and muscle pain. 

 

  • Surgery: People often use back braces to reduce pressure on the spine after a spinal surgery. Braces can also provide stability and limit micro-movements that could lead to further pain. 
  • Spinal conditions: Back braces reduce back pain for people with isthmic spondylolisthesis, spondylolysis, osteoarthritis, or degenerative disc disease.  
  • Muscle pain: Back braces can effectively support muscle sprains and muscle tension in the back. 

Am I a Good Candidate for a Back Brace?

The best way to determine if you’re a good candidate for a back brace is to talk to a spine specialist about your back pain. Doctors may suggest a back brace if:

 

  • You’ve recently had back or neck surgery 
  • You have a spinal condition that affects your ability to walk or move
  • You have a degenerative condition that and could benefit from reduced micro-motions
  • You have a muscle strain or tension 

Back Braces at Mocek Spine

At Mocek Spine, we want to help clients live a pain-free life with advanced spine care solutions, including offering a selection of premium back braces for clients with back pain. 

 

If you’re experiencing chronic or severe back pain, make an appointment online or contact our office at 501.224.4001 to discover pain management options.