In these technology-driven days, we spend our time hunched over the computer, crane our necks to scroll through Instagram or Tik Tok and put our bodies in different positions to accommodate the laptop in our hands. All of this improper sitting is causing our back and shoulders to strain because we're putting our body and spine in a very unnatural position. This can lead to serious back and shoulder pain and muscle imbalances.
What to Consider When Buying
The Right Fit
The first thing you should consider when buying a brace is the fit. It should feel snug but never too tight or too loose. It shouldn’t irritate or rub your skin. Your posture should get support without restricting any motion. If you feel any of this, you didn’t get the right fit. You should be able to wear it for an extended period of time without discomfort.
Choose a reliable supplier that can ship a shoulder brace Australia-wide. Someone with a good return policy so you can make a change if needed. Always keep an eye on the size chart of the manufacturer. They have specific measurements that fit a certain size. Some have a one-size-fits-all, and some come in many sizes from 2XS to 2XL. Read the specifications carefully and measure yourself.
You can do this with a soft measuring tape. Wrap it around your chest and back, under your armpits. The next measurement is at the waistline, the narrowest point of your torso. Some braces have an adjustable strap shaped like a belt. This will improve the fit and make you feel more comfortable if you're in between sizes.
Support & Comfort
The brace should have straps whose purpose is to evenly distribute the weight to your shoulders and back. Make sure it’s made of breathable materials, so you don’t feel sweaty and sticky and do not have skin irritations. If you need to wear it for a longer time during the day, choose a brace with padded straps. This will feel more comfortable.
Finding a posture corrector that offers the proper level of support for your body type is essential. Look for one with straps that pull your shoulders back and down if you have rounder shoulders. Look for a product that supports your mid-back if your upper back has a kyphotic curve. Also, if your lower back has a lordotic curve, get one with a lumbar spine support. If you’re not sure which one you need, ask your chiropractor for opinion and advice.
Adjustable Straps
If you want to get the right support, having adjustable straps is a must. If your brace gets loose over time, you can adjust it and use it some more. Also, if it feels too tight you can loosen it up a bit. The adjustable part is often Velcro. It's the easiest way to control the tightness. Some braces have loops, but they can be more complicated to handle.
Materials
The material is another important consideration to make. It's what makes the brace comfortable throughout the day. The fabric should not rub against the skin when moving, be breathable, and washable, and not cause any friction. An easy-to-wash material will be more hygienic because you’ll have to wash your corrector very often.
The most popular material for posture correctors is neoprene, a breathable and long-lasting synthetic rubber. Other materials these correctors can be made of are cotton or polyester. They might be breathable but aren’t as durable as neoprene. Even if you’re allergic to latex, there are some latex-free options from suppliers that can send your shoulder brace Australia-wide.
Benefits of Wearing the Brace
Pain Relief
When you have the right posture, the correct muscles are strengthened and engaged while you sit or move. This will reduce strain on muscles that aren’t meant to hold your posture. Additionally, having good posture relaxes the connective tissue in your shoulders, back, and neck which can become stiff and painful if you have poor posture.
With the right shoulder braces, your spine will be aligned and the good posture and benefits will go beyond your neck and back. You'll significantly reduce the tension headaches caused by a lack of support. You'll also reduce ankle, knee and hip pain caused by spinal imbalances. The right posture can also help with constipation or heartburn.
One of the biggest risks of bad posture is that it builds up over time. The longer you have a bad posture, the greater the chance of developing long-term problems. Maintaining proper posture helps you avoid chronic discomfort brought on by years of bad posture.
Will Make You Taller and Slimmer
When you slouch all of your appearance is changed. You’ll look short and even appear to have a pot belly. Getting the right posture with the brace will keep your spine in a natural position. A healthy spinal curve might make you appear taller in the cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid-back) areas. Also, when you have the right posture in your lower back, you’ll have a flatter stomach.
Reduced Injury Risk and Proper Exercise
When you have a good posture, you’ll be able to do your exercises properly. This includes running, jogging, cross-training, weightlifting or any other physical activity you prefer. You'll optimise your muscle strength, reduce soreness after exercising and decrease fatigue. There will be less chance of you getting injured as well. This is because every muscle that’s supposed to work works, your spine is properly aligned, and you have full control of your body and strength.
Increased Mobility & More Energy
When you take care of your posture, you use muscles that are intended to position and move your spine rather than the unsuitable ones. Good posture can minimise fatigue and increase energy levels. It can also increase lung capacity by widening your chest. This oxygenates your blood and provides an additional energy boost you might need. Plus, you’ll have a more flexible spine, and improved balance and your joints will be properly aligned.
Additional Features to Look for
Some braces can have additional features that can be very helpful. Some have extended straps which are very convenient for people with wider chests. Some offer a hot and cold pack for additional therapy. This way you have a hands-free way to soothe the pain. And you can add or remove them easily. There are posture correctors which are paired with an exercise ball. This addition will improve your blood circulation and reduce swelling.
