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Braces
While movement and exercise are frequently advisable to promote healing and a healthy spine, at times, motion of the lumbar (lower) spine or neck can actually delay healing after injuries or surgeries. Limiting the motion of the spine can enhance the healing process and typically decreases lower back pain. For patients with a history of back problems, or in careers that regularly employ lifting, braces can also be used to prevent injury.
Rigid Back Braces
These are form-fitting plastic braces that are rigid and require custom fitting. Rigid braces typically limit about 50% of the motion of the spine and are used after fusion surgery or for fractures. They can be heavy, hot and uncomfortable at times, and are typically only removed when a patient is lying down.
Corset Back Braces (Elastic Braces)
These braces support the lower back and also limit motion limiting forward movement. People with jobs that involve heavy lifting, or those that have recurring back problems, may find regular use of a corset brace helpful. In addition to providing support and limiting harmful motion, braces serve as physical reminder to use proper body posture when lifting — using the leg muscles to do the work and lifting with a straight back.
Neck Braces
Neck braces are used to provide stability after neck trauma or surgery, or as an alternative to surgery. They take various forms, from a soft flexible collar, to a more rigid Philadelphia collar, to something that is purposely more immobilizing such as a SOMI brace or halo brace. Generally they are used to promote healing and prevent pain or additional injury during recovery. Surgical patients may progress from more complicated rigid braces to less restrictive, softer braces as their healing progresses.