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Back Braces For Scoliosis: What Works In 2023?

Back braces for scoliosis.

Read where and when the condition occurs and what you can do about it with our thorough investigation.

Scoliosis is a very common problem where the spine bends in a sideward direction. The condition mostly develops in childhood and through puberty (in the adolescent/teenage years).

Help for Sufferers of Scoliosis in Childhood and as Adults

On this page, you’ll find comprehensive information on:

  • the causes of scoliosis
  • the symptoms
  • the problems you might encounter, and
  • the treatment for mild, moderate, and severe cases.
  • I’ve taken extra effort to fill this with USEFUL information, some of which you will NOT find anywhere else.

This website mainly explores the use of braces for all sorts of bodily conditions and injuries. So, naturally, we’ll have some recommendations for the use of good back braces for scoliosis so you can manage, improve and in some cases, even reverse the condition.

While a lot of the products recommended on this page are designed for adults, you’ll also find some very helpful information about how to treat scoliosis in children. We also discuss other ways to manage this complicated and often serious problem.

On this page… 

… you will find a selection of the best back commercial braces for scoliosis (mostly for adults). If you have a child that requires a brace, these may also help, but do make sure you get professional help to assess all your treatment options (which could include a fully-customized soft-lined hardshell brace).

IN A HURRY? Skip to our best choice of Back Braces for Scoliosis

What Good Back Braces do for Scoliosis

A back brace designed especially for Scoliosis will aim to:

  1. Provide the pressure to ensure a corrective force on your spine
  2. Guide your spine for further growth and development during the growing years.
  3. Provide symptomatic relief from pain and discomfort in your back.

On this page, here you will find a step-by-step guide to finding the best back brace for scoliosis.

In a hurry? Click here to skip to the reviews!

The nature of treatment including the type of brace you use is dependent on each patient’s individual situation. When it comes to back braces for scoliosis, there are hard braces (with varying degrees of customization to suit the patient), hybrid braces (a combination of hard and flexible panels, straps and devices), and soft braces. While a certain type might be recommended to you, the other types still may have good effect.

Read on so you can inform yourself about:

  • many important aspects of scoliosis
  • ranges of professional treatment, and…
  • self-managed activities such as specific exercises, stretches and other ancillary therapies.

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a very common condition in which the vertebrae develop a lateral curve instead of staying straight (or vertical). A normal functional spine has an array of convex or concave front-to-back curves in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions. 

Scoliosis usually starts in childhood

The non-functional lateral curves and rotation typical of scoliosis, are usually set into the spine during childhood and adolescent years. More specifically, there is a curve that bulges out to the side, and that curve will likely also involve a degree of rotation around the spine itself.

Scoliosis involves lateral curvature plus lateral rotation

Scoliosis, a 3-dimensional condition, causes abnormal curves and changes in the spine, which depart from the normal curves. The lateral curves are superimposed (in one or both directions) and put great stress on the spinal column. 

In normal function, the curves are there to maintain proper functional balance (and help distribute weight) needed for regular activities that most humans undertake.

Caused by some kind of structural or functional imbalance

It stands to reason that regardless of reason, if there is an upset to the curves, then the body becomes imbalanced. Scoliosis is when that imbalance institutes a longstanding change and the body can no longer create optimal conditions of balance, weight distribution, and most importantly, optimal function.

With scoliosis, there are changes in posture and function, which range from not obvious to highly disfiguring and dysfunctional.

The obvious physical changes manifest in unevenness in the shoulders, waist, and/or hips. This is a trademark of scoliosis.

Changes have a cascading effect that tends to magnify as they move up the body. Perhaps you’ll see the body leaning heavily to one side, and associated with that, the head may be out of alignment. The head is heavy in comparison to the rest of the body, so if that weight is continually being carried off to one side, this can worsen the effect of the scoliosis. This is because gravity will serve to amplify the ill-effects.

Is scoliosis painful?

Mild conditions may be completely asymptomatic. The more advanced cases may have associated pain that results from spinal imbalances. Longstanding problems in severe cases may mean that the altered thoracic space for lungs and heart could result in breathing difficulties; ribs are likely to misalign due to the introduced lateral curve and spinal rotation.

The wear and tear, and cumulative effects of scoliosis

A slight or small curve (or imperfection) is not that significant. However, large curves are prone to cause damage to the bones and joints. Even though the damage is cumulative over time, and starts out to be relatively minor, small asymmetrical degradations and wear of the vertebrae and facet joints mean that the longer the condition is left untreated, the worse the cumulative effects and the more difficult it will be to return to normal spinal curvature in all directions.

A large curve is the main cause of arthritis of the spine and can make the ribs rub against the pelvic bone (usually on one side). This back problem can also initiate a severe lung problem due to changing the shape of the space in which the lungs need to operate effectively.

Effects of scoliosis over time

The effect over time is to decrease spinal mobility, flexibility and agility and can create systemic problems if severe.

These conditions might include arthritis, muscular and mobility issues due to asymmetry of function, decreased lung function, circulation difficulties, and more.

Good back braces can help

Fortunately, regardless of the cause, cases of scoliosis can benefit from the use of good back braces. They can be an effective way to manage, improve, and in some cases even reverse the condition. Remember, for a reversal to be possible, it does depend on the cause and the timing of treatment.

Four Types of Scoliosis

There are 4 broad types of scoliosis.

1.  Congenital scoliosis:

  • Caused by deformed vertebrae or ribs.
  • Present at birth.

2. Idiopathic scoliosis:

  • Comprises the greatest proportion of cases, about 80%.
  • Of unknown cause (hence the label, idiopathic)

Idiopathic scoliosis usually appears in childhood and is diagnosed around 10 years old.

Here is a list of possible causes:

  • Diet (possible malnourishment)
  • Prolonged or repeated dysfunctional or asymmetrical activity
  • Posture and postural and movement habits
  • Genetic issues

3. Scoliosis from neuromuscular causes

When the condition is a result of surrounding supportive muscles via certain activities or conditions. Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy are the two main problems referred to here. This is because they affect spinal development, spinal strength, and tone. A third is Spina bifida, which is a disease of spinal deformity.

4. Degenerative scoliosis

Rather than form in childhood and adolescence, this form of scoliosis is usually diagnosed after 60 years old. Changes in postural alignment are the result of wear and tear and are often combined with the effects of dysfunctional movement. Oftentimes it happens because the patient is decreasingly active and does not exercise the way they used to.

Symptoms of Scoliosis:

  • Uneven shoulders and asymmetry of waistline (one exaggerated curve, the other might be a straight line)
  • One hip higher than the other one
  • One of the shoulder blades appears more prominent than the other one

Complications caused due to Scoliosis:

  • Back Problems: Adults who most likely developed scoliosis during childhood, can experience chronic back pain.
  • Lung and Heart Damage: Severe scoliosis can cause lung and heart problems. The rib cage unevenly presses the lungs and heart backward which can cause breathing problems. This backward push may create circulation issues and make it more difficult for the heart to pump blood.
  • Physical Appearance: Severe scoliosis affects the physical appearance of the body. The changes are noticeable; such as uneven shoulders, prominent ribs (on one side), uneven hips, a sideways shift of the waist, and of the trunk to the side. People may suffer from confidence and self-esteem issues due to their appearance.

Diagnosing Scoliosis

A diagnosis of scoliosis occurs after certain tests have been carried out. The most common of which is the observation of misalignment of shoulders, hips, and or ribs with the use of Adam’s Forward Bend Test. The patient bends over from standing. When the clinician stands behind, they note any misalignment which becomes more obvious in this position.

Confirmation of the diagnosis then comes with further testing. MRI, CT scans, and X-rays can provide more information on the location and severity of the curves. An angle of over 10 degrees calculated from radiograph indicates the presence of scoliosis. The curve is significant if above 25 degrees and severe if over 45 degrees.

Effects on muscles around the curve

Associated with one side of overdeveloped, and the other side, underdeveloped muscles may be a weakness of muscles. One side may be in chronic or permanent spasm as the band of muscles contracts around the extra curve. Less common but still possible are numbness and abnormal reflexes. A thorough investigation will test for all these things.

Important questions to ask yourself to help you diagnose the cause of your scoliosis

The following 2 points will inform your diagnosis. Regardless of the basic underlying cause, awareness of these can help you create better conditions for reversal.

  1. Are you, for example, aware that you stand leaning preferentially on one leg? This is an extremely common characteristic of women. Mostly, men tend to stand with legs separated and firm and straight, distributing weight evenly. This is one reason why males are far less likely to have scoliosis.
  2. Do you cross your legs frequently, and usually in the same way? (Maybe pay some attention to the way you habitually cross your arms as it too may affect spinal rotation.)

Why does scoliosis occur more often in girls?

For some reason, girls have a far higher incidence of scoliosis than boys. Why? Maybe there’s an elephant in the room!

Are You Experiencing a Structural or a Functional Scoliosis?

This factor is not discussed. Most websites will say that the cause of scoliosis (idiopathic) which accounts for 80% of all cases, is MYSTERIOUS. This is a ridiculous assertion.

You need to consider the single MAIN UNDERLYING CAUSE: Is your condition STRUCTURAL, or FUNCTIONAL? I say main underlying cause because a structural main cause will affect function. It will affect how you move and how your body operates. And, with time, scoliosis caused by purely functional causes WILL cause structural change (explained further).

The differences are important. BROADLY SPEAKING: If you are talking about a structural scoliosis, the spinal deformity could be due to defects in the building blocks (bones) or supportive structures. Clearly, changes to function are immediately inevitable. If you are talking about the possibility of the scoliosis occurring due to functional means, you are looking at how a potential normal (or close to normal) anatomy has been used asymmetrically, repeatedly, over time to create a change of function (causing dysfunction) in the body.

So, why even make the distinction?

It is true that factors that create or worsen a functional scoliosis (such as types of physical activity, gravity and so on) will also occur in the bodies of those with a structural scoliosis. Both types can respond to treatment.

However, it stands to reason that if a condition is caused by dysfunctional asymmetrical activity, then there is the possibility to reverse the effects of that longstanding habitual movement. If you can learn to move with proper function, with or without the support of back braces designed for scoliosis, you have a high(er) chance of improvement.

If you have a congenital (or structural) scoliosis, then you may be able to get a partial improvement of your condition because you can help reverse the effects of the ravages of gravity and time on your spine.

Permanent damage will hamper ability to reverse effects of scoliosis

It is essential to recognize this waiver: Habitual dysfunctional movement that has created scoliosis (regardless of cause) will cause some degree of permanent damage to the vertebrae and facet joints (from slight to advanced wear-and-tear on the tissues). The longer and more advanced the damage, the less able your body can re-take on completely normal function.

There is hope!

But, the excellent news is you can, with the right training towards proper functional symmetrical movement, regain a spine that is inherently more functional and less painful or uncomfortable. You could even approach something close to ideal or optimum position.

The switch to mindful activity and movement

It is also important to recognize this:

  • The kinds of movements you have made have habituated your spinal muscles into their signature movements. You have trained them unconsciously, since you could walk, and when you started to load those muscles in the vertical plane.
  • You may always have a TENDENCY towards the spinal curvatures you developed. You may never be able to FULLY reprogram your neurology to move in complete function.
  • But what you will have is a lessened severity, and you’re likely to have less pain and discomfort… and maybe no pain and discomfort at all.

Which brings us to why girls and women are greater sufferers of scoliosis than men.

It could be in the way women stand

It is estimated that 10 times as many females have scoliosis than males. There is much more to scoliosis than I will state here, but take the time to notice a very clear and obvious difference between the stance of men and boys versus women and girls. Men and boys tend to stand upright, both feet evenly weighted for the most part. They stand tall and often with feet that are spread out to about hip-width. They look solid and grounded when they stand still.

Women and girls on the other hand, very often lean on one leg. If you have ever leaned on one leg, you’ll notice you have a preference to lean on one side and not the other. If you do shift your weight to lean on the non-preferred leg, I can guarantee you will not spend an equal amount of time leaning on the other leg: It will be for a fraction of the time you spend leaning on the preferred one. Add to that the propensity in child-rearing years for women to carry children on one hip and you can get a real sense of the dysfunction that is occurring on a daily basis.

Repeated dysfunctional asymmetry: Is it a contributing factor? I strongly believe so.

Asymmetry

Asymmetry causes an immense imbalance in the function of the physical framework of the body. The body responds by creating neuromuscular pathways that may “fit” into this asymmetrical expression. The reason that this does not happen in every body that leans on one leg is that we all have unique physiological habits. You may lean, but perhaps you also are a fit and active person who partakes in a sport that demands symmetry of movement.

Gravity and types of activity affect the severity

The more severe the curve, the higher the degree of the curve, the more likely the curves will worsen with time.

Add bodily movement to the effect of gravity on a non-functional curve and the scoliosis will worsen, unless the patient is proactive with treatment and exercise.

Treatment: General rules of thumb

Generally, conditions may stabilize once bone growth has stopped, at least in the early decades when progression tends to slow down. Because of the plasticity of the body that occurs during growth, the time for the most effective treatment is during the bone growth years. Taking X-rays of hands can confirm status of bone growth.

ANGLES and SEVERITY and BRACES

You may have heard that severity of the condition is associated with a number expressed in degrees. This angle is calculated using X-rays. A number less than 10 indicates a condition that may not even need treatment, but rather evokes a ‘wait-and-see’ approach. Between 10 and c40 degrees is a moderate condition. Above 40 – 45 is severe. Younger patients with less than 40 degrees have excellent outcomes with brace use.

It’s worth stating again: Younger patients with less than 40 degrees have excellent outcomes with brace use.

Treatment for Idiopathic Scoliosis

A misaligned spine (scoliosis) significantly affects an imbalance of the back muscles. Your movements are a result of years of training and repetition that are so far behind the scenes and automatic (unconscious), their influence on your body is mostly not even noticed.

So, what does that mean? It means that your habitual movements are so strong that they can even return the spine to its misaligned state even after correction. This is why professional help from bodyworkers, Pilates studios, exercise physiologists, therapists and chiropractors is advised, during and after the use of braces.

The goal of treatment is to:

  • Improve function
  • Improve quality of life
  • Allow for participation in normal activities
  • Reduce the extra introduced lateral spinal curves (beyond the cervical, thoracic and lumbar curves common to all normal human spines); slow curve development (or stop and reverse)
  • Strengthen the weak muscles and relax the tight muscles
  • Achieve balance
  • Reduce or eliminate pain
  • Create increased comfort
  • Create increased normal function
  • Reduce dysfunction and one-sided movements and movement preferences that may have caused the imbalance
  • Reduce the spasms that tighten the lateral convex curve of the spine
  • Stimulate and increase the use of the underused muscles on the concave curve opposite

A wait-and-see approach is often taken in mild cases of idiopathic scoliosis.

However, it is best to try to restore (or part-restore) correct function to the spine. The aim is to restore the vertical stature of the spine. If there is no structural reason or condition (such as congenital and physical discrepancies) then targeted muscular and joint work will alleviate the condition.

This can be done through targeted symmetrical work (combined with targeted work to build up the weaker side). The most effective way to retrain the body is with Pilates. While yoga and other forms of exercise work, Pilates seems to have reliable benefits over the rest. While mat work is helpful, the use of a Pilates reformer which makes the patient work under traction and load (often without negative effects of gravity), will deliver the best results.

Surgery may be necessary

Braces can be used pre-surgery. They are used as an interim measure to stabilize before invasive intervention in severe cases.

If you have a severe case of scoliosis, age, plus the ravages of gravity on an imbalanced spine WILL mean the condition will worsen. Most doctors will suggest surgery to straighten the spine and stop the progression.

Different surgical techniques for scoliosis include:

  • Spinal fusion connects 2 or more vertebrae. Bone-building substrates are introduced to the space in-between (either as bone grafts or synthetic bone). Metal rods are installed to straighten and stabilize. Screws and wires may also be used. Some of the hardware may stay permanently in place.
  • Decompression surgery may be performed.
  • An expanding rod may be installed. These are adjustable as the child grows. Adjustments would occur every 3 – 6 months either under surgery or via a remote control. Wherever rods are installed, the patient will have a straight(er) spine but this comes with a permanent loss in flexibility and range of movement.
  • Vertebral body tethering is a keyhole procedure. This kind of surgery uses small incisions to install screws along the outside (convex) edge of the spinal abnormality. A strong, flexible cord is then threaded through the screws. Once installed, pulling on the cord adjusts the curve to set the tension. The spine straightens as the cord is tightened.

Back braces are an effective, non-invasive treatment

Braces:

  • Provide relief from pain
  • Stabilize the spine
  • Help correct curve abnormalities
  • Help prevent a worsening of the deformity
  • Best worn while the child is still growing
  • Still, they are effective in adults
  • For best results, particularly while body is still growing, brace should be worn for 20 hours per day
  • Are effective in more than 3 out of 4 patients

Braces Help Improve Scoliosis Conditions

Bracing:

  • Improves sitting balance and trunk support
  • Which provides better head and neck control
  • And as an extension of this, you get more efficient use of arms (and even legs)

When you use a brace for scoliosis:

When you brace the back, you no longer need your arms to provide extra supportive work to stabilize your body. Your arms are free to function normally and help carry out other activities. The whole body functions better.

Well-fitted, well-designed braces are very likely to slow the further progression of a scoliotic condition. The less severe the curve (and the sooner the brace is applied) the better the outcome. It is, however, never too late to slow down the degrading physiological effects of scoliosis. Use a brace at any age.

NON-INVASIVE treatment for scoliosis

Besides braces, you can help the condition in self-managed ways.

Stretches for Scoliosis

On one side of a misaligned lateral curve are muscles that are perpetually contracted. This is the tight side. The other side has underused, underdeveloped, under-stimulated muscles. The tight side needs stretching and lengthening and the weak side needs stimulation and strengthening. In most cases, work done to stretch the latissimus dorsi works very well for most sufferers. If you experience such tightness, you will naturally want to stretch the tighter side more.

A latissimus dorsi stretch:

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and shoulders down and back, away from ears.
  2. Inhale arms up overhead. Arms extended, grab the left wrist with the right hand.
  3. Inhale, stretch up tall, and as you exhale, maintain your upright posture and allow the body to stretch over to the right by pulling the left hand up, out, and over to the right.
  4. Feel the stretch from the outside of the legs in an arc right up through the hips to the hand and fingertips.
  5. Stay in this position, breathing, 10 seconds at least, constantly correcting and recorrecting alignment to stay ‘flat’ (do not bend forward or back).
  6. Repeat and grab right wrist with left hand and move to the left.
  7. Repeat the cycle a second time.

Exercises for Scoliosis

A curve occurs when muscles tighten on one side. Correspondingly, on the other side, the muscles are weaker by comparison and underused.

A weak spine cannot hold the spine in its correct or natural alignment. Treatment aims to balance out the inequity.

Weightlifting? Maybe not.

A misaligned spine has a high chance that it will worsen if excessive or undue weight is applied such as heavy lifting or weightlifting. While exercise is required to improve the weaker side, weightlifting may further strengthen the stronger side and cause more curvature. It overloads the wrong (dysfunctional) curves to worsen the condition. People with scoliosis should not weightlift heavy weights that create extra forces on the curve. If the muscles of your weak side are not activated properly, you would just strengthen the muscles around the curve and potentially cause more damage.

Other helpful exercises

Core strength development is crucial: planks, abdominal presses are helpful. Try this exercise which will engage your abs, and flatten your back muscles onto the floor.

  1. Lie on your back with legs in table-top (where thighs are vertical and legs are bent at 90 degrees).
  2. Press your hands into your knees but do not allow the thighs to leave their vertical position. Strongly maintain the effort for a good solid 10 seconds. Arms and legs do not move. They both exert considerable pressure against each other.
  3. Repeat the exercise 2 more times.

Pilates or exercise physiology?

Find activities that alleviate pain and decrease deformity. Well-trained professionals can help you. Pilates is an excellent exercise that will not compress the spine. It provides training to teach functional and symmetrical action to the muscles, joints and body. It can move you towards balance.

Where you look matters

Get professional help to ensure you keep your head and neck in good alignment.

Maintain an outward and forward eye gaze (do not focus on the floor). Many scoliosis sufferers look down or favor a side to look towards. This affects function.

Reviews of the Best Back Braces for Scoliosis

Scoliosis can be treated by wearing a back brace that is specific for scoliosis. Depending on the type of brace fitted, a brace can reduce symptoms such as discomfort and pain, and the best ones are posture-correction devices that will actually help reverse the abnormal curve of the spine, and guide it towards better structure.  Braces are effective for adults and children and particularly effective if the subject is still growing.

Regardless of age, a brace should improve your comfort and relieve pain while creating some correction to your posture.

On this page, you will find a selection of the best back commercial braces for scoliosis (mostly for adults). If you have a child that requires a brace, these may also help, but do make sure you get professional help to assess all your treatment options (which could include a fully-customized soft-lined hardshell brace). 

So, let’s have a look at some detailed product reviews.

RankBack Braces for Scoliosis BrandPrice
1Bracepost Lower Back BraceBracepost Check Price
2MODVEL Back Brace with Removable Lumbar PadMODVEL Check Price
3Sparthos Lumbar Support Brace with Lumbar PadSparthos Check Price
4Fit Geno Back Brace and Posture CorrectorFit Geno Check Price
5Huninpr Back Brace and Posture CorrectorHuninpr Check Price
6Selbite Back BraceSelbite Check Price

1. Bracepost Lower Back Brace

Bracepost Back Brace

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Vital statistics

At the time of writing this article, this fairly new brace has extraordinarily great reviews. With only 40+ reviews in total, there are zero 1-star and zero 2-star reviews.

The Bracepost is categorized as a Lumbar Support and covers the lower thoracic area too. It is the longest of the braces on this page (without shoulder straps) and is a sturdy, functional, good-looking brace that is helpful in aiding scoliosis too!

Important characteristics about this brace

  • 360-degree support
  • This brace is longer than others of its kind.
  • 5 sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL). Measure up, buttercup! 😀 Follow their advice.
  • 2 metal springs
  • 5 metal stays for lumbar support to fit and help you recover your lumbar curve
  • Thick comfortable neoprene fabric
  • 2 adjustable wide and strong elastic straps
  • Silicone protective sleeves that house the ends of the metal stays (durable unlike other brands)
  • 4-year warranty

What we like:

We really like how risk-free this product is. It comes with a 4-year warranty and if you are not happy you can get a refund or replacement. We like the 1-inch-wide stays that curve to snugly fit the lumbar curve. We really like the silicone sleeves that the end of the inserts fit into. In some other braces, these things poke out, but not in the Bracepost back brace. Some people report instant relief. This is an excellent and long brace without shoulder straps which extends of some of the thoracic spine.

What we don’t like:

The sizes tend to run big. When in doubt, order down a size.

What the reviews say:

The reviews range from very good to excellent! Support and comfort get 5 stars. Pain relief gets 4.8 stars. It’s a great all-rounder (with 360-degree support and works like a charm).

This brace is longer than the other back braces without shoulder straps. It’s comfy, elastic and durable. Give it a whirl.

Also Read: Best Back Braces For Lower Back Pain

2. MODVEL Back Brace with Removable Lumbar Pad

MODVEL Back Brace with Removable Lumbar Pad

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Vital statistics

Overall, this one is a good brace. It fits around the mid and lower back. It does not have any shoulder straps. It does have some supportive metal springs and stays in the back that are designed to fit the curves of your back to help create better posture.

It seems to work well. If you have a body that is less hip-py (if your figure is more masculine or less curvy) then this could be just the thing for you. Over 4000 people have cumulatively rated this one 4.4* and there are comparatively few 1-star ratings.

Important characteristics about this brace

  • 6 sizes to choose from
  • 2 metal springs and 4 metal stays provide support
  • Better for more masculine or up-and-down figures
  • Reports far and wide that pain is minimized or disappears during use
  • Teaches body’s muscles to support the body and create better posture
  • Helpful in scoliosis

What we like:

What’s great about this device are the number of type of metal springs. In the thousands of reviews, almost nobody complains about them. Unlike other braces with metal springs, these ones stay within their pocket and don’t poke through! There are 6 sizes to choose from. And what we like is, that if it fits you, then your pain should be relieved.

What we don’t like:

The strong chemical smell you get when you unpack this brace (which can last for days). Velcro doesn’t last long enough. Not great for women who have hourglass figure where measuring at the hips rather than the waist is recommended contrary to product recommendations.

What the reviews say:

The reviews say that for the most part, the sizes run small. So, if in doubt, or your middle is larger, choose the next size up. Out of all the braces for backs we reviewed and tested, this was the only one with many reviews saying the smell was strong. Quite a few elderly people with degenerative problems reported they had great pain relief.

Also Read: Best Back Braces For Posture Correction

3. Sparthos Lumbar Support Brace with Lumbar Pad

Sparthos Lumbar Support Brace with Lumbar Pad

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Vital statistics

Talk about a well-liked product. If you’re after something that has stood the scrutiny of tens of thousands, then look no further. (Well, read this review in detail and then decide! 😉 )

This is a lumbar brace only. It is not one that covers thoracic vertebrae or the shoulders. It is still very useful to provide support and stability from the bottom up (literally!).

This back brace has over 46,500 reviews with an average 4.4-star rating. It has only 4% 1-star reviews which makes it good for this class of product.

This is the shortest of the 3 recommended braces on this page that have no shoulder straps (Modvel, Sparthos and Bracepost).

Important characteristics about this brace

It has:

  • A removable lumbar pad
  • Rigid support stays (helps stop rolling of the bands)
  • Elastic mesh (over a broad area dissipates heat)
  • Industrial grade Velcro adjustable straps
  • Breathable fabrics
  • Discreet enough to wear under a tank top.
  • 3 sizes to choose from

Relief from scoliosis? Yes, and some reports of relief from compression fractures, relief from pain and significant posture improvements.

What we like:

This brace has lumbar support. Speaking of support: There is also very good customer support. J We like that there are only 3 sizes which makes choosing a size less of a guess (than say, one with 7 size choices). This is not a bulky brace and is easy to wear under clothing.

This brace seems to be successful specifically for scoliosis sufferers who report their chronic conditions improve. Yay.

What we don’t like:

A common complaint is that women with womanly hourglass-y figures don’t find this fits them well. The waiver is if they measure on the hips instead of at the navel. We think it’s odd that the sizes are Small, Large and XX-Large. It could just as easily been S, M and L. Either way, it really just forces you to measure up as advised. Never guess your size.

What the reviews say:

There are a lot of Velcro fails and sizing complaints. The Velcro can destroy the mesh with use. And as you’re likely to put it on and take it off a number of times per day (in short rather than long stints) the Velcro can exact damage on the brace.

Sizing: It’s a goldilocks complaint. Some say it’s way too big (even the small) and others say it is sized too small. Our recommendation is to measure well. Pay attention to whether you have an hourglass figure or if your waistline is more straight up and down on the sides. Overly curvy, this one might not be for you! If so, try the MODVEL instead.

Also Read: Best Back Braces For Pain Relief

4. Fit Geno Back Brace and Posture Corrector

Vital statistics

Welcome to the best reviewed of all the back braces that we’re recommending. It’s the first of the 3 full back braces (i.e., combines lumbar, thoracic and shoulder support) that encourages a more total support of the back. The other 3 above are lumbar/lower thoracic belts that have fantastic results. If you’re after a brace that also actively pulls the shoulders back and down, and helps correct your posture with a full-body approach, then you probably cannot go wrong with this one*. *The waiver is, of course, provided you get the right fit and it suits your body!

Keep in mind, there are hundreds of back braces to choose because there is not one that fits all bodies, but remember, this one has a 4.7-star rating from about 1400 reviews and a very reasonable 4% 1-star.

Important characteristics about this brace

The Fit Geno back brace earns its high position, high rank and high star-rating with:

  • 3 sizes: Small, Medium, and Large
  • Has 2 flexible ABS support bars (help straighten your back)
  • Relieves pain in shoulders and waist
  • Takes the pressure off pain-affected and poor-posture-affected areas of the back
  • 4 fiber support rods sealed into the unit and non-removable
  • Balance pressures across the body with adjustable shoulder straps and double straps at waist
  • Doesn’t impinge on armpits (comfortable)
  • Breathable materials
  • Stretchy neoprene
  • Can wear discreetly under clothing
  • Can return for exchange (when wrong size chosen)
  • Adjust the different straps according to your needs. Tighter with higher level pain or more lifting. Looser with lower pain levels.

What we like:

We like the vertical stays along the spine and how they support and stabilize the body. It’s not supposed to be worn 24/7, because you want the brace to retrain your muscles to do their work. This product does help you to be mindful of your posture for all the times you’re not wearing it. You want a product that you have decreasing reliance on.

We like the advice to start wearing your brace for 15 or so minutes per day and slowly build up the wear-hours.

It’s fairly easy to put on (may need help in the beginning) and it’s good for the elderly, for scoliosis sufferers etc. Pop the brace on when you’re doing housework or are on outings, or if you are doing lifting work.

What we don’t like:

Look, we’ll say it here… We found something we don’t like. You may find the seller offers money to give a review. That’s just not kosher, is it? When it comes to the actual brace there’s very little to complain about.

What the reviews say:

You might have difficulty in finding the perfect fit if the stays do not fit your body shape. Many people say they need help (at least the first times) to put the brace on.

Overall, people say time and time again that it’s well designed and well-constructed. It’s easy to put on, to wear. Most people find the straps comfy and strong. Some—and this is inevitable—find the straps are uncomfortable.

Measure up well. Follow instructions. Adjust for use and you should have a brace that has positive effects on scoliosis, pain, degenerative conditions, provide support and stability and correct your posture. Win!

5. Huninpr Back Brace and Posture Corrector

Vital statistics

Almost 400 have reviewed this whole-back brace with shoulder straps with a 4.6-star rating. This device is popular.

Important characteristics about this brace

The Huninpr back brace:

  • Comes in only 2 sizes. So, if you’re very small, it may not fit. Check the sizing advice.
  • Has double loop shoulder straps that don’t impinge on the armpit.
  • Made of neoprene, strong stretchy elastic, Velcro straps.
  • Has a removable sponge pad if you need it under the arm.
  • It’s heavyduty, but light enough and discreet enough to wear under clothing.

What we like:

We like the recommendations to wear for 15 mins per day, at first. Work your way upwards.  There are quite thorough instructions for acclimatization to get the most out the product.

This one also helps change your muscle memory, to retrain yourself to create better muscle function, better posture.

This one also helps with scoliosis.

It’s easy to put on, and more comfortable that other braces.

What we don’t like:

Here’s another product that pays you for 5-star reviews. We think this is not on. Some people report the straps are too wide and hurt them under their armpits. (However, there are those who say the straps feel sturdy and strong.)

The instructions are not very precise and a little confusing.

What the reviews say:

Some reviewers don’t like the backpack-feel they get when they wear the brace. But what is valued is the way it helps retrain your body to correct your posture while you’re wearing the device, and more importantly, when you take the thing off.

6. Selbite Back Brace

Selbite Back Brace

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Vital statistics

Almost 5,000 reviews with an average 4-star rating. It has higher 1-star ratings than we would normally recommend, but despite those reviews it is one of the biggest sellers.

Only you can decide whether you’ll take the chance with this one or choose one of the other 5 on this page.

Important characteristics about this brace

The Selbite back brace:

  • 5 sizes: Small, Medium, Large, XLarge, and XXLarge
  • Removable aluminium stays.
  • Durable breathable material
  • Strong mesh to reinforce the device while allowing for airflow
  • Provides upper and lower back support
  • Velcro adjustable straps
  • Can wear under clothing

What we like:

Some great results have come from wearing this brace: Standing straighter even after 2-hour per day brace wear. Remember, you’re not supposed to wear devices like this all day, every day. Wear it to support your lifestyle, when you are lifting things, when you exercise, when you have to stand a long time, that kinda thing.

What we don’t like:

The worse thing about this brace: The support ribs push through the fabric, even with light standing work, not just heavy lifting. It’s not a very durable brace (despite being super-popular). Nevertheless, many say they love it. And, the replacement was easy if they had a warranty issue… um, like the stays breaking through. 😉

We also don’t like the conflicting size info online and on our package.

What the reviews say:

The good:

While most of these devices need a little hand from someone else to set them up, some reviewers suggest when you take it off, loosely reattach the shoulder straps so it’s easy to put on again (without assistance).

The bad:

Many say it cuts in under the arms (uncomfortable).

Most poor reviews call out the problem of metal springs poking through the material, even after first wear.

We felt obliged to include this brace because it is a great seller, but in our estimation, its biggest downfall is that the metal stays break through the material. That’s not cool. If you’re after a similar shoulder strapped brace, then look at Fit Geno and Huninpr braces to balance your search.

 

Save yourself from buying the wrong back braces for scoliosis

There is still a high debate between research scholars and doctors about the degree of effectiveness between the full-time back brace and only night-time wear. However, several modern studies suggest that the longer you apply pressure to alter your spinal curve the less your condition will worsen and the more it will move towards healing and comfort… and an improvement in the quality of your life. Put differently, the amount of time you give pressure to your spinal curve is inversely proportional to the progression of scoliosis curve.

Note that:

Night-time wear is very beneficial because compliance is easy and activity is mostly unhampered. It is easier t adhere to the simplicity of protocol (confined as it were, to the home).

It is important to get a proper diagnosis or at least to determine the severity of your condition (by measurement of the degree angle in your vertebrae).

Most doctors will recommend full-time wearing (14 – 20 hours per day) for angles above c35 degrees. Below 35 degrees, perhaps a brace at night-time only will suffice. Remember, the longer you wear it, the better and potentially shorter time to create change.

However, there are three other factors that are also crucial to determine before you advance towards your brace options.

  • Bone maturity: Doctors mainly recommend a hard-pressure brace while your bones are young and are in a growing stage. If your bones have matured and growth has stopped, heavy pressure applied through a hardshell brace is less advised. A hybrid or soft brace will do.
  • The curvature of the spine: Determine the exact location of the curvature. It is more likely to be in the thoracic spine than lower down. Your doctor will make recommendations based on the degree and position of your curvature.
  • Curve intensity: Doctors are likely to recommend back braces if you have a curvature between 25 and 40 degrees in your spine. Off-the-shelf braces are not recommended for those with a huge curvature. Angles of more than 40 degrees are typically treated with back surgery. See the detailed notes above.

Back Braces for scoliosis can be very beneficial for people suffering from this uncomfortable condition which often presents with pain. A back brace can help repress further spinal curving. A high-quality brace can help provide relief from pain and prevent further curving of the spine and minimize the chance of other health problems.

FAQ regarding best back braces for Scoliosis

Question: Do back braces help with scoliosis? Answer: Yes, back braces are useful in treating scoliosis. They assist in the reduction of back pain caused by scoliosis. Activity and function can be easier and better with brace wear. They are not intended for all-day wear. Braces help you retrain your muscles to better function. Time spent without the brace is crucial to create the support you need in your body.

Question: How much does a back brace for scoliosis cost? Answer: Off-the-shelf braces for scoliosis range from $15 – $100. They appear to be reasonable in price. 

Question: Can scoliosis be fixed by a Chiropractor? Answer:  Chiropractic treatment can provide symptomatic relief, but does not treat or reverse scoliosis. How you use your muscles is important. The chiropractor can assist you in creating the right conditions but any curative or healing action comes from you and your efforts. 

Question: What degree of scoliosis requires surgery? Answer: Surgeons believe that patients who have severe curves from 40, 45-50 degrees or higher are advised for surgery.

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Callie Santiago

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