The use of sports braces has become more visible in recent years, with the technology advancing and many sports stars donning various braces to keep them playing for longer. There are now sports braces for each area of the body, ranging from ankle supports to knee supports to back braces, all designed to manage specific conditions.
With so many products on the market it can sometimes be a difficult decision to make. The purpose of any sports brace is to protect and aid the patient during their chosen activity, therefore selecting the correct brace is essential in being able to remain active for longer.
As back braces are associated with back injuries, for repeat injuries you will no doubt have already seen a doctor or physiotherapist as part of your recovery and may have been recommended a specific form of brace already. If you are ever in doubt as to which type of brace you require you should consult with your healthcare provider who will be able to advise you accordingly.
What are back braces?
Back braces are designed to manage lower back injuries covering the lumbar region and hernia conditions. The majority of braces, back braces included, have one thing in common, in that they apply compression to an affected area. Compression works to reduce inflammation by compressing the skin, which in turn can help to reduce pain and improve endurance. The compressive technology can also reduce muscle vibration and maintains muscle alignment, so that during an activity the use of back braces can minimise discomfort and reduce the risk of further injury.
In considering back braces they work to aid the mobility of the patient by helping to manage their back injury, which can help with simple tasks like getting out of a chair or picking up a bag of shopping.
What injuries are associated with wearing back braces?
There are a number of injuries associated with wearing back braces, typically focussed on the lower back with lumbar support or hernia support products available.
Back injuries are typically caused by muscle strains, with the muscle either stretching or even tearing in more serious injuries. Any muscle issues in this area can hinder the movement of a patient and performing simple tasks can be very painful, even getting in and out of the car can prove difficult. There are many causes of back injuries, whether from overstretching, attempting to lift something too heavy or where an individual is not used to using their lower back through lack of fitness. If you watch weight lifters will always wear a weight belt, a support not too dissimilar to back braces which protects the lower abdomen during heavy lifting. It is this extra support and security which can help to prevent back injuries or a hernia injury from developing during movement or through heavy lifting.
Depending on the severity of the muscle injury the rehabilitation offered may differ. In the immediate aftermath of any injury it is important to rest and apply ice to the affected area to help manage inflammation as well as being able to soothe the area, as you may experience some discomfort. You should also rest for a few days and avoid any strenuous tasks, though after a few days if the problem persists then it would be advisable to see your doctor who will be able to offer a more detailed diagnosis of the problem.
In terms of rehabilitation you may be required to see a physiotherapist who can work with you on exercises to strengthen the affected muscles and get you back to full fitness. They may suggest using back braces as an added measure of protection to be used during the day until you are fully fit again.
In general back braces can be used to manage conditions including lumbar strains, back pain, lumbosacral strains and sciatica. It may be difficult to self diagnose such specific conditions, hence the need for medical advice.
Another injury associated with the lower back is that of a hernia, which is a little more serious than the average muscle strain. A hernia is basically an internal part of the body which pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissues. There are a number of different types of hernia, depending on the affected area and the internal part of the body protruding but a hernia support can be used to manage the condition short term.
Back braces are used to manage hernias by compressing the area and stopping the internal parts of your body from pushing through. Depending on the severity of the hernia surgery may be offered, though the use of back braces can help when waiting for the operation and allow you to continue normally knowing you have the additional support required.
The benefits of back braces in general are that they offer protection to an affected area and give the patient increased confidence to continue normally. The varying styles of back braces have their own specific benefits, depending on what they are looking to manage.
Hernia supports for instance have the added benefit of securing the area where the hernia occurs and keep the internal parts of your body internal. Lumbar supports work to aid mobility of a patient by offering compression to the affected muscles which can reduce pain and allow them to continue normally.
The main benefit of all back braces is that they are discreet and can be worn under clothing, therefore you can continue as normal without anyone knowing you are wearing one. The materials used to design back braces are also breathable and comfortable and conform to the skin.
About the Author
Dave Regis discusses the use of orthotics for the management of sports injuries, reviewing injury rehabilitation through exercise and the use of bracing and supports. He frequently blogs and writes articles covering areas of interest, focussing on back braces and other methods of rehabilitation.
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