What Is the Proper Way to Wear a Workers Back Brace

Especially for those workers who have to lift and do a lot of heavy physical work, it is essential to wear a back support brace. Properly worn, it effectively reduces the burden on the lower back and prevents spinal strain or even lumbar disc herniation. On the contrary, if incorrectly worn, it may bring new health problems.

How to Choose the Right Size

The upper back brace should be selected according to one's body type and waist size. If it does not fit, it may malfunction.

According to a study conducted by the American Physical Therapy Association, a correctly fitted size of the Fivali brace can reduce the incidence of back pain by 50 percent, whereas an incorrectly fitted size does not reduce the pressure on the back. Ensure the Back Brace Straightener fully wraps around the waist with sufficient tightness. Typical size ranges given below:

• Size XS for 60-70cm waist circumference

• Size S for 68-80cm waist circumference

• Size M for 78-90cm waist circumference

• Size L for 90-100cm waist circumference

• Size XL for 100-110cm waist circumference

• Size 2XL for 110-120cm waist circumference

• Size 3XL for 120-130cm waist circumference

• Size 4XL for 130-140cm waist circumference

Positioning for Wearing

The adjustable back support should be aligned at the L4-L5 level of the lumbar spine, which is typically considered the primary weight-bearing region of the lower back. The top and bottom rim/edges of the brace must completely cover the top of the hip bones for adequate support.

The tightness shall be adjusted according to the wearer's comfort, but must fit snugly at the waist without restriction of breathing or blood circulation. The 2018 Spinal Health Research Report found that maintaining a range of 50-70% effectively reduces lumbar pressure by 30%. One should appropriately tighten it during physical activities, while during rest or conducting detailed work, the belt can be loosened slightly.

Risk of Injury Prevention

Even with the brace, workers are still expected to maintain proper postures, such as keeping their back straight and knees bent during heavy lifting. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Survey Report says that dependence solely upon the brace, without minding posture, still results in a risk of back injury.

• Continuous heavy work should not exceed 6 hours.

• Prolonged standing work requires the orthosis to be worn intermittently, with a 2-hour work period followed by a 15-minute rest.

At the time of lifting any object by bending, first of all, squat, hold the object firmly, and then rise upward slowly. With long repetitive work, shift positions, or walk every half hour to reduce local fatigue. The American College of Sports Medicine data indicates that workers receiving core muscle training increase lumbar endurance by 20%.