A Complete Guide to Back Support Aids

Back pain is the leading cause of disabilities worldwide. It affects around 80% of people and is the common reason for doctor visits. In the UK, 14.1 million people report having a disability. Around 50,000 live with a spine injury. 

Though, it might be factors like an injury that causes disabilities, incorrect sitting posture can also worsen the condition or cause back pain. It is a common issue for the elderly. But, lack of physical activities, immobility can also cause severe back pain in youth. 

Thus, it is advisable to have a proper sitting posture. To avoid it or reduce it, you can use support aids such as a back support belt, elbow supports, etc.

Let’s see what they are and how they can benefit.

Types of Back Support Available in Market

Depending on your requirement, there are various options you can choose from. You can choose an orthopaedic backrest that ensures a correctly aligned spine. 

Select back support belts that minimize pain, etc. Stuffed back pillows give a sigh of relief in comforting the back.

Other options include portable backrest with a foldable option. Ergonomic backrest, memory foam cushion, back braces, are other options you can opt for. The list is endless.

With so many options available, it becomes confusing to select one. Or say, it becomes imperative to choose the right support aid. But does it help? Let’s find out.

Are Back Supports Beneficial? 

Yes, ergonomically designed backrests are beneficial for all the age groups. Generally, we don’t pay attention to how we sit and what we sit on. We seldom practise proper sitting posture. And over time, these improper ways lead to back pain or severe disabilities. However, we can avoid it by using support aids.

Support aids provide support, lumbar, and weight to our posture. The poor posture we sit or lay down creates pressure on our lower back. It affects the disc that makes up the spinal column. The lowest vertebrates of the lumbar region, i.e., L4 and L5, are most prone to damage.

To ensure that this doesn’t happen, support aids make us sit in the right manner with the spine aligned properly. They maintain the anatomic position of the spine even when one is unaware of the posture.

For the elderly, using backrests regularly can help to lessen the ache. For instance, back support belts that suppress pain and provide instant relief. Thus, backrests are beneficial and important. 

Are Back Supports Mandatory?

Definitely not!

If you 

- have a healthy lifestyle,

- maintain proper posture,

- remain active,

- avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest,

- wear comfortable shoes, and

- lift objects properly (often seen during heavy lift workout).

Then you don’t need to.

If your working station is ergonomically designed, you don’t need additional support because it would prevent your back problems or provide support in case of difficulties. 

Well, if you don’t, then you should have back support. Older people must have it. It secures the spine from future problems and provides comfort.

How to Choose the Right Back Support

Having a properly carved back support is essential. As improper support may not only fail to soothe your pain, it might worsen your pain. 

Things to keep in mind while choosing the right support are:

- The back support should have an optimum lumbar curve.

- It should be of the right size. Choose from sizes like small, medium, large, or buy a custom size. 

-  It should have proper cushioning for comfort.

- It should be adjustable in height and width.

- Its material should be strong and durable, whereas portable and light for carrying.

- It should provide pelvis support.

Support Aid Products 

1. Back Support Vertebrate

This product provides a therapeutic compression to the lower back. It acts as a preventive measure for future injuries and is best for lumbar spines with minor injuries. 

Back Support Vertebrace has a small, low profile design that makes it easy to wear underneath clothing.

2. Back Brace With Stays

This product is made of neoprene. It provides comfort and compression to the pain, especially the central back.

It is perfect for people with a manual occupation or playing sports as it stabilizes the twisting movements. 

Talking about twisting movements and sports, elbow supports are also good to have. 

Ortho Backrest, Back Support Belts, Pillow Massager, Shower chair with backrest are other good  products for back support. 

Remember, a good day is the one where you don’t wake up with back pain. Some even say that you can win all battles as long as your back is pain-free. So, take care of yourself!