What Are The Functions Of Orthopedic Back Braces?

Orthopedic back braces have different kinds but the primary purpose of this device is to give back support to the patient. They come in the form of belts, corsets, and jackets that are specially designed to provide stability to the spine or immobilize it. Orthopedic back braces are employed to treat infections, trauma, muscular weakness, neck conditions, and low back pain. They can also modify the spine into many positions like upright, neutral, flexed, lateral-flexed, and hyperextended.

The functions of orthopedic back braces are to allow healing to take place, decrease the chance of further injury, control the pain, prevent or correct a deformity, and make up for muscle weakness. Several types of orthopedic back braces constrict the abdomen and as a result, increasing the intra-abdominal pressure and providing some relief. It also insulates the skin which produces warmth that decrease the sensation of pain, making it very effective for people who have painful back problems.

An example of orthopedic back braces is the trochanter belt that is prescribed for patients with sacroiliac joint pain or pelvic fractures. It clasps in the front and is put on like a regular belt with the help of Velcro straps. What's great about it is that it is unobtrusive,  can be worn under your clothes without sticking out, and you can sleep with it if it is required.

Another form of orthopedic back braces are medical corsets which can vary in length. The short ones are usually employed for treating low back pain while the longer ones are used for problems in the mid to lower thoracic spine. Corsets typically extend over the buttocks, are held up by shoulder straps and contain metal stays that provides the needed rigidity and back support.

Finally there are hyperextension braces that are prescribed for spinal fractures as well as for people who are recovering from a spinal surgery. These type of orthopedic back braces stop excessive bending by limiting the movement of the spine, therefore letting it heal and recover correctly.

Using orthopedic back braces has drawbacks as well. It may lead to loss of muscle function due to immobilization. Additionally, some people become psychologically dependent on the back brace after they are already healed and don't have to use them anymore.