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How do I Choose the Best Posture Support Brace?

Laura M. Sands
Laura M. Sands

In choosing the best posture support brace, it is important to find one that will be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods, yet strong enough to offer good posture support. This is particularly important if you have identified areas of back or shoulder weakness. A posture support brace is important in helping to prevent injury while lifting heavy objects, as well as to prevent or correct poor posture when sitting or standing for long periods of time. This is done by holding the shoulders in place, as well as by offering firm support for the back to prevent slouching while reducing the likelihood of back injury. Therefore, choosing the best posture brace will ultimately depend more on how effective a brace is than how much it costs or even how good it looks.

While wearing a posture support brace, you will be constantly reminded of correct posture since a brace tends to make poor posture difficult or uncomfortable. A posture brace may be found in a variety of styles, support levels and sizes, most of which can be worn beneath your clothing throughout the day. As they are typically worn for extended periods, you will want to choose a posture support brace that not only protects and addresses posture problem areas, but that is also made of breathable materials and allows for a fair amount of flexibility when moving about.

Back braces may be worn for posture and back support.
Back braces may be worn for posture and back support.

If shopping for a posture support brace online, since you will not be able to try it on before purchasing, be sure to have a friend or family member properly measure your shoulders and back to figure out your proper size. Also, be sure that the merchant accepts returns or exchanges in case you are not satisfied with your purchase. Search for consumer review articles or forum discussions about a back brace to get an idea of its quality and overall customer satisfaction before making a purchase.

Poor posture can lead to a variety of spinal issues.
Poor posture can lead to a variety of spinal issues.

If you lead an active lifestyle or will be wearing the posture brace while lifting heavy objects, it will be important to try on several braces to find one that offers firm support, but that also moves with your body. Even after finding one in your proper size, however, consider how easy it is to adjust straps and bands on the brace. Adjustability is important when choosing a posture support brace, but is particularly so if you will be wearing it while engaging in a lot of movement. After several hours of wear, you will find it comforting to be able to make adjustments to your back brace as needed.

Ultimately, choose the posture support brace that gives you the best support to protect and improve posture, and that also is breathable and comfortable for extended wear. Braces with foam padding, for instance, may seem comfortable at first, but avoid these if they add to the brace’s bulkiness or if it’s determined that the padding will increase body heat when it is worn in a warm environment. Choose whichever brace contours to your body without compromising firm support and comfort.

Discussion Comments

Talentryto

When trying on several posture support braces, it is a good idea to buy the one that does not have a bulky feel to it. Even if you think a bulky brace has more support, you will be less likely to wear it over time if it is uncomfortable.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a posture support brace that feels flexible and looks smooth under clothing. Typically, if a brace fits like this, it will not become uncomfortable after hours of wear.

Rundocuri

If you use a posture support brace while working, you probably depend on it to help you lift heavy objects. Since you need this support to work, it is a good idea to invest in several support braces. This way you will always have one ready to wear.

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    • Back braces may be worn for posture and back support.
      By: Gennadiy Poznyakov
      Back braces may be worn for posture and back support.
    • Poor posture can lead to a variety of spinal issues.
      By: Felix Mizioznikov
      Poor posture can lead to a variety of spinal issues.