Are back belts or braces effective in preventing back injuries?
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) there is no scientific evidence that either supports or refutes the effectiveness of back belts or braces in preventing injuries. However, NIOSH does not recommend the use of back belts or braces by individuals who do not have a history of back injuries. Back belts or braces may in fact give the user a false sense of security that may result in lifting a weight that is beyond his or her capability. Some effective methods for preventing back injuries are: • Maintain good physical fitness by exercising and eating right • Maintain good posture at all times even when sleeping • Plan your lift • Position yourself correctly in front of the load • Lift with your legs, not your back • Do not twist, turn or over reach • Set the load down correctly • Get help if needed / know your lifting capabilities.
