Orthopedic back braces have various types but the main use of this equipment is to support the back of the patient. The types of this brace are corsets, belts, and jackets which are specially created to bring stability to the spine or prevent it from moving unnecessarily. Orthopedic back braces are utilized to treat osteoporosis, infections, low back pain, trauma, neck conditions, and muscular weakness. They can also manipulate the spine in various positions such as lateral-flexed, upright, flexed, hyperextended, and neutral.

The purposes of orthopedic back braces include controlling pain, decreasing the chance of further injury, let healing take place, make up for muscle weakness, and prevent or correct a deformity. Some forms of orthopedic back braces compress the abdomen, thus increasing the intra-abdominal pressure and providing some relief. The warmth caused by insulating the skin can also reduce the sensation of pain, making it very useful for individuals who have painful back problems.

An example of orthopedic back braces is the trochanter belt that is prescribed for patients with sacroiliac joint pain or pelvic fractures. It fastens in front and is put on like a regular belt using Velcro straps. What�s great about it is that it is unobtrusive, can be worn under your clothes without sticking out, and you can sleep with it if it is required.

Another kind of orthopedic back braces are medical corsets which have different lengths. The short ones are usually employed for treating low back pain while the longer ones are used for problems in the mid to lower thoracic spine. Corsets generally extend over the buttocks, are kept in place with shoulder straps, and include metal stays that gives the needed rigidity and back support.

Lastly, there are hyperextension braces that are used for spinal fractures and also for people who are recuperating from a spinal surgery. These kind of orthopedic back braces prevent excessive bending by restricting the movement of the spine, thus allowing it to heal and recover appropriately.

Using orthopedic back braces has drawbacks as well. It can initiate the loss of muscle function due to lack of movement. Furthermore, some people become psychologically attached to the back brace even after they have fully recovered and don�t need them anymore.