You’ve seen them in commercials or featured in various deal-of-the-week promos online: posture braces that are touted as all you need in order to correct your posture, fix those slouching shoulders and enjoy a pain-free, well-aligned life.
So, do they really work? Well, if the definition of “work” in this case is to hold your shoulders back for you while you have the device on, then technically, yes, they work. Ask yourself the question, what is the desired result you wish to see by using one of these devices?
- Do you have a structurally over-curved upper back and rounded shoulders? Is it this hunched posture or appearance you wish to reduce?
Then, no, posture braces won’t do the job. Correcting a hyper-kyphotic spine (excessively rounded upper back) is more complex than simply pulling your shoulders back. Save your hard-earned dollars and put them towards an evidence-backed spinal orthotic that is prescribed for you by your corrective Chiropractor. - Do you have neck/upper back/mid-back/shoulder tension and discomfort that comes from your slouched posture, especially when sitting in front of a screen all day?
In this case, you may feel some temporary relief from using a posture brace. But remember, it is not corrective and your faulty posture will come right back as soon as you remove the brace. If you have recurring or chronic pain and tension, relying on a posture brace will not get to the root cause and therefore cannot offer a permanent solution.
As always, Drs. Erin McLaughlin and Pierre Paradis are here to help should you have questions about your spine, posture, and what you can do to feel and function better in your life. If you live or work in Kanata and the surrounding area, contact Hazeldean Family Chiropractic Clinic at (613) 831-9665.