Posture correctors effectively reduce or eliminate the aches, pains and abnormalities caused by poor posture. Though many doctors, chiropractors and physical therapists recommend posture braces as part of their treatment plans, there are often misconceptions about how they work and how to use them properly. The following FAQ addresses the most common questions we hear to help you make the best decisions about using a posture corrector.
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How do posture correctors work?
Posture correctors work in two ways. First, they align your spine by gently retracting your shoulders into proper alignment, stabilizing your spine and preventing slouching. Second, they build muscle memory and train your body to maintain good posture even when you’re not wearing your corrector. Learn more about how posture correctors work.
Are posture correctors effective?
Yes, posture correctors are effective when used as recommended. Doctors, chiropractors and physical therapists often include posture correctors in their treatment plans for poor posture. Learn why posture correctors are effective and read what doctors say about them.
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Will a posture corrector do everything for me?
Posture correctors help align your spine and train your muscles, but the goal isn’t to rely on one 24/7. Instead, you want to build muscle memory, so you can sit, stand, walk and run with good posture even when you’re not wearing a brace. For that reason, they work best in conjunction with other therapies, such as exercises, stretches and practicing mindfulness.
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What are the different types of posture correctors?
Posture braces come in several styles, including split strap, cross-back elastic, longline back brace, molded upper back brace and electronic devices. Evaluate your options and choose a corrector that’s made with premium materials and has positive doctor testimonials.
How long should I wear a posture corrector?
It depends on how much support and reinforcement is required to correct your posture. In general, you should start slow. Wear your brace up to 30 minutes at a time, a few times each day. Then, gradually increase usage to a maximum of six hours per day.
Continue using your posture corrector until you’ve achieved the desired result. Then you can use it intermittently thereafter for maintenance. You can regularly wear your brace as a reminder or wear it again if you start settling into bad habits. For more information, read this guide on how to use a posture corrector.
How tight should my posture corrector be?
Tight enough to provide support but not so tight it’s restrictive.
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Can I wear a posture corrector while sleeping?
You could wear your posture brace while sleeping, but there’s no benefit – and you shouldn’t wear one that long anyway. Remember that posture correctors work by training your muscles to maintain proper posture while sitting, standing and moving. When you’re asleep, your muscles are lax and not being trained. For those reasons, wearing one while you sleep is not recommended.
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Can I wear a posture corrector while running?
Yes, and doing so can help you maintain proper form while you run. Training your postural muscles to engage properly could even enhance your athletic performance.
Can I wear a posture brace while pregnant?
Many posture correctors can be safely worn during pregnancy, but it’s always best to consult your doctor first. Post-pregnancy, they can be helpful if you’ve developed lordosis from carrying your baby.
Can you make a homemade posture brace?
You could make a DIY posture corrector, but unless you have a solid understanding of biomechanics and how to design and manufacture a brace that aligns, supports and trains your body, it’s probably best to buy a posture corrector made by a company that has invested in research and development.
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Are posture corrector bras effective?
They’re probably not as effective as braces explicitly made for posture correction. Bra straps do not fit over the head of the shoulders, which is essential to retract the shoulder blades effectively. Posture correctors like BackEmbrace work comfortably with your existing bra, consisting of a split strap system where the straps hug around the outer edges of the shoulders and allow for adequate retraction.
What are posture corrector shirts?
Posture corrector shirts are designed to provide support but are not as effective as posture correctors. Shirts offer mild compression-like support but cannot provide adequate tensile strength to change your posture sufficiently.
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Are posture correctors FSA eligible?
You might be able to get reimbursed for your posture brace if you have a flexible spending account (FSA). Check with your insurance provider to confirm eligibility.
Do they make posture correctors for kids? Are they safe?
Yes, some companies make posture braces for children. However, you should only use a posture corrector for kids with a doctor’s recommendation and supervision.
Do posture corrector car seats work?
Most posture correction car seats offer passive support. You lean against them, but they don’t guide and align your spine or train your muscles the way posture correctors do.
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Can you wear a posture corrector under clothes?
Yes, some posture correctors are made with lightweight, ultra-soft materials that can be comfortably worn under clothing. Some are also made with stylish prints that look fashionable when worn over clothing.
What’s the difference between a posture corrector, posture brace and posture straps?
In this context, they’re different terms for the same thing. However, some medical posture braces are made to treat specific conditions and fall under their own categories.
Are posture correctors safe?
Yes, posture correctors are safe when used properly. Learn more about posture corrector safety.
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Do doctors and chiropractors recommend posture correctors?
Yes, many doctors and chiropractors – and physical therapists – recommend posture correctors. See what doctors say about posture correctors.
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How should I wear a posture corrector? How do I put one on?
Consult the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also read this overview on how to use a posture corrector.
Is it bad to wear a posture corrector all day?
You should not wear a posture corrector all day. Start slow – up to 30 minutes at a time, several times a day – and work up to a maximum of six hours daily.
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What is the best posture corrector?
The best posture corrector is one that is:
- Comfortable and stylish, so you’ll wear it
- Made from high-quality, durable materials
- Recommended by doctors, so you know it works
Can a posture corrector help kyphosis?
Yes, a posture brace can be part of an appropriate treatment plan for kyphosis. Learn more about using posture correctors for kyphosis.
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Can a posture corrector help scoliosis?
Traditional posture correctors might not be the best treatment for scoliosis because they typically help with forward/back spinal curves, while scoliosis involves a sideways curvature of the spine. Consult with your doctor to determine an appropriate scoliosis treatment.
Can posture correctors cause pain?
Posture braces can cause some discomfort at first as you engage muscles you’re not used to using. This discomfort gradually subsides over a few days as your postural muscles strengthen.
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Can you wear a posture corrector while working out?
Yes. A posture brace can help you maintain proper form during your workout, engaging muscles that could even enhance athletic performance.
Do I need a posture corrector?
If you have postural issues such as kyphosis, lordosis, forward head posture, tech neck, or generally want to improve your posture, stand straighter, and reduce or prevent pain, a posture corrector can help.
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Do posture correctors make you taller?
Since posture correctors help you achieve proper posture by elongating the spine and pulling your shoulders down and back, they can make you appear taller and slimmer and prevent slouching.
Do posture correctors work long term?
Consistency yields long-term results, and continually using a posture corrector builds muscle memory and creates good habits that can improve your posture long-term.
How can you adjust a posture corrector?
Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer for adjusting your specific model. In the meantime, you can learn more about how to properly use a posture corrector.
Are posture braces bad for you?
Not when used correctly. If in doubt, consult a trusted medical professional, such as your doctor, chiropractor or physical therapist.
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Are posture braces worth it?
Ultimately, that’s up to you to decide. They’re affordable for most people, and the benefits of proper posture include:
- Pain relief
- Slimmer and taller appearance
- Increased confidence
- Improved form during exercise
- Reduced injury risk
- More energy, greater flexibility and increased mobility
Many people feel those benefits far outweigh the relatively minimal cost of a good posture corrector.
Looking for a lightweight, comfortable, stylish posture corrector that works? Try BackEmbrace!