What is a posture corrector and do you need it?

WORDS Sonia Blair PHOTOGRAPHY Pinterest PUBLISHED Thu, 19 May 2022 - 10:40 am

As I write this piece, I am aware of the inadequate positioning of my spine and posture on my office chair. I am sat like a dishevelled mermaid, interpolated with a curled over prawn. I am not quite Hunchback of Notre Dame, but I am certainly not the Duchess of Cambridge at.. well, any formal occasion since April 2011. It can't be helped but to ponder, what is a posture corrector? While they sound self explanatory and what should be a requisite part of any office worker's life, there are many misconceptions about the device and how they can be employed. Sit up straight and strap yourselves in as we unpack the ins and outs of good posture and why using a posture corrector may be beneficial to your health.

Why does good posture matter?

While the reasons should be apparent, there are many benefits of having good posture including developing strength in areas of the body which are prone to experience chronic pain. It also helps reduce tightness in the neck, shoulders and upper back.

Having good posture can also help improve energy levels, allow you to maintain proper form when exercising, reduce chances of injury from exerting energy and help with taking more air in your lungs. Think of posture as key to maintaining overall health and well-being, and also the key to performing daily activities with ease.

The areas of posture which matter most are the neck, cervical thoracic junction (found slightly below the nape of your neck) and your lower back area.

What is a posture corrector?

With the bolstered knowledge of why your posture matters, you may be intrigued by the idea of improving and supporting it with a posture corrector. Posture correctors are wearable devices designed to provide support and correct structure to the posture. They work to align your spine and build mind-muscle pathways helping maintain health posture and re-teach natural repositioning away from slouched positions.

What are the types of posture corrector?

Posture correctors vary in make, with the most common forming a cross-back brace made with elastic or adjustable straps. Long line back braces, lower back belts and moulded back braces are also common forms, alongside electronic options which signal reminders to individuals to cease slouching or adjust their seated position. For those who wear bra’s, there are a selection of posture correctors on the market that support the wearing of a bra.

How long should you wear a posture corrector?

The length of time a person should employ a posture corrector varies from person to person, a question best directed to a chiropractor or GP if you are unsure of the ideal length for your situation.

As a rule of thumb, it is recommended people wear a posture corrector for 15-30 minutes per day for three to four days, gradually increasing the days as they feel is necessary for their posture. Observing how your posture adjusts and improves with wear is central to using a posture corrector, so monitoring if you are feeling results or not is key to using the device.

What do I look for in a posture corrector?

There are three key components of a posture corrector to consider when purchasing, including:

Targeted areas: Is it targeting the area of your back that you feel is weakest? This is central to choosing a posture corrector. The most common posture correctors target the shoulders, cervical thoracic junction and your lumbar spine. If you are unsure of which area is your weakest, look at your posture from the waist up and pinpoint the origin of your slouch.
Comfort: Look for a breathable material which feels soft and non-irritable on your skin, and doesn’t contort your body into unnatural positions. If it isn’t comfortable, it won’t be useful as you won’t use it.
Ease of use: If the posture corrector of your choice isn’t simple to wear or attach to your body, consider looking at an alternative option. Practically speaking, if you can’t put it on yourself, you won’t wear it as much as needed.

Shop the below selection of posture correctors to get your back into shape today.