Should You Consider Back Braces For Sciatica?

Yes. People suffering from back pain due to sciatica should consider using back braces. Why? Back braces for sciatica work like a crutch to provide support to the core muscles and absorb pressure that comes from daily activities such as walking, sitting, running, bending, etc. It reduces the pressure placed on the spine and provides the necessary support and comfort required to recover from sciatica pain. There are a number of medical braces available that help treats sciatica pain. You can either purchase them at the retail price or if you're a Medicare beneficiary, you can get Medicare back braces for sciatica at lower or no cost.

Before we talk about why you should use back braces, it’s important to understand what sciatica pain is.

Let’s start.

What is Sciatica Pain?

People often think sciatica is a condition but it’s a symptom of a pinched or compressed nerve. The nerve compression occurs due to swelling resulting from friction between bones and muscles, muscles & ligaments. It may occur due to any other medical condition causing the nerve to become constricted and pitched.

As a result, a patient feels a shooting pain beginning at the lower back and radiating to the one the buttock or calf. Depending on the location of the nerve compression, the pain may even reach down the feet. A patient feels a tingling pain and burning sensation in the affected side of the body.

What Factors Cause Sciatica?

As mentioned earlier, sciatica can occur due to a number of medical reasons and conditions. Some conditions that might cause sciatica nerve compression include herniated disc, bulging spine, fracture in the spine, degenerative disc, etc. It may also occur in pregnant women when a baby may press the sciatica nerve.

Different Types of Braces For Lower Back Pain

Generally, there are three types of back braces that are used to treat lower back pain.

1. Flexible Back braces: These braces are made up of soft cotton material and are used to treat mild lower back pain

2. Semi-Rigid Back Braces: Semi-rigid back braces for sciatica are used to treat mild to moderate back pain. These braces are also used for pregnant women to provide support and comfort during the pregnancy process.

3. Rigid Braces: Rigid braces are made up of molded plastic and sturdy material and these braces are used to treat chronic back pain.

What Factors To Consider Before Getting Back Braces For Sciatica?

When choosing back braces for sciatica, make sure they are right for your condition, provide enough support and compression, and alleviate back pain. To determine the right back braces, you need to consult your doctor or physical therapist.

The choice of back braces for sciatica largely depends on the severity of your condition, injury and where are you in your recovery program.

How Long Should You Wear Back Braces For Sciatica?

It really depends on the guidelines you get from your healthcare provider. In some cases, patients need to wear back braces for six months to treat lower back pain. However, if your injury is severe, you might need to wear a brace for a longer time period.

If you’re suffering from Sciatica, pain, a back brace is essential to alleviate pain and fast recovery. However, these braces are expensive and most people cannot afford to buy them at full price. If you have Medicare Insurance or your healthcare provider is Medicare-enrolled, you can get back braces for sciatica at little or no cost. You can contact the most trusted Medicare-approved supplier that will provide you with Medicare braces specific to your condition.