Consider bad posture to be your nemesis! Slumped shoulders, hunched backs and poor posture can lead to all manner of aches and pains - and in this world of mobile phones and desktop computers, our posture is greatly suffering.
But if you’ve started to notice that you’ve become curved over and are struggling to sit or stand up correctly with good posture, or maybe you’re experiencing back and shoulder pain, fear not. When worn discreetly, a posture correcting brace really can effectively help to straighten you up and ease those tensions in your spine.
What does a posture brace do?
The purpose of a posture brace or corrector is to train your muscles into the correct position for proper posture. The more you use it the better your muscles will learn to hold you in good form. The posture brace will actually force your body into the right position with shoulder straps so that your spine, shoulders, upper and lower back and chest muscles sit where they should be.
Using a posture correcting brace regularly will help to reduce your slouching, improve poor posture, and train you to stand up straight – even after you take it off.
What’s wrong with bad posture?
Apart from making you look older than you might be, bad posture can lead to chronic pain, degenerative joints and discs, injuries and even osteoarthritis. When you sit or stand ‘incorrectly’ you create an imbalance in your body, or weak or tight muscles that eventually lead to aches, pains and problems further down the line.
How to choose a posture brace
There are different types of posture correctors to choose from. Most fit comfortably over your shoulders, pulling them back to maintain an erect posture, provide stability as well as absorb shocks and protect the spinal cord. Some posture braces are like a simple, strappy waistcoat that sits over the shoulder while other posture correctors are fitted with a steel support inside for added structure and correction.
Whatever style of posture brace you choose you should:
- Make sure it is a comfortable fit
- Doesn’t rub on any part of your back, front of shoulders
- Isn’t so rigid that it forces your body into a position that causes pain or discomfort.
How to Wear a Posture Correction Brace
- Place the shoulder strap of posture brace over the shoulders.
- Stand up nice and straight in your best posture - standing against a wall offers a good support for your back while you put on the brace
- Secure the abdominal straps comfortably around the waist while maintaining your best posture.
- Cross straps under armpits and place the shoulder straps through the ribbon on the back of the support.
- Secure the shoulder straps comfortably in front so that the brace has a small amount of tension against your body.
- Make sure you’re not over tightening the posture brace. It should not be so tight that it is uncomfortable to wear.
You can try wearing the posture brace on top of a thin layer of clothing for a more comfortable fit.
How often to use a Posture Correcting Brace
Unfortunately a posture correcting brace won’t turn your bad, slouching back into that of a prima ballerina’s overnight! However, over time with regular use you can achieve a better posture.
Start by wearing your posture brace for 15-30 minutes every day. Gradually add more time as your body gets used to the corrected posture position.
If you feel painful aches or throbs in your shoulders or upper back, or are tired from wearing the brace, even while sitting down, take it off and wear it again the next day or two. Also, if while wearing the brace your body feels tired or the brace feels tight you might need to remind yourself to straighten up and maintain better posture. Remember that wearing the brace will act as a reminder to sit up straight!
You may also gradually tighten the brace over time as you work towards achieving a better posture.
Be Patient and Consistent
The more you use your posture correcting brace, the better your posture will become. Be patient and don't expect results overnight but with consistency you will gradually find yourself standing taller and decreasing your chances of developing posture-induced back, spine and neck pain in the future.
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November 2022