Should I get a posture brace? Will a posture brace fix my posture?

Osteo for Families • May 31, 2022

Should I get a posture brace? Will a posture brace fix my posture?

There are many different styles and types of posture braces out there - but should you get one to help support your posture?


People are often aware that they may have poor posture and question if a posture brace would improve their posture.


So how do you decide if a posture brace is right for you? 


Often poor posture is due to a combination of muscle imbalances from weak and fatigued muscles through the back, and tight and short muscles at the front of your chest. Lack of movement throughout the day can also contribute to the fatigue of these muscles.


When we add a brace it can act as a good reminder that we need to reposition ourselves, so when we fall into a slouched position the posture braces restrict our body's movement. However, our bodies like to conserve energy so if there is a way to reduce how much our muscles need to work they’ll stop working as hard. The issue with this is, that we stop activating our muscles as we become more reliant on the brace so the muscles become even weaker and lazy.

For some people braces can be appropriate and have benefits, however what I generally recommend is that a strengthening program for certain muscles as well as a simple phone reminder to check posture can be effective as well. 


Everyone is unique in their body biomechanics and postures so seek individual advice from your trusted Osteopath if you are considering a posture brace.


--

Dr Mariella Berry (Osteopath)

BSC (Osteopathy), MHSc (Osteopathy)

Two seniors exercising with dumbells
By Key to Life Health and Fitness May 16, 2025
Discover how exercise enhances mobility, mental health, and overall well-being for seniors. Join Key to Life’s expert-led classes supporting seniors in the Eltham, Lower Plenty and surrounding areas.
By Key to Life Health and Fitness May 9, 2025
Discover the benefits of outdoor fitness! Improve health, boost mood, and enjoy nature with Key to Life’s expert-led outdoor workouts.
Brendan Smythe personal training and outdoor group fitness classes
By Key to Life Health and Fitness May 1, 2025
Congratulations to Brendan Smythe our May Member of the Month and newest 10 Year Member. Brendan has been a member of Key to Life for 10 glorious years which is an outstanding achievement and shows how much time and commitment Brendan has put into his health and fitness over these years. Brendan has been a regular at the Monday 6:30pm and Wed 6am Outdoor Box Blast Sessions and has recently picked up a 1:1 PT session to fine tune some of his goals. He has also attended numerous Running and Social Events over his 10 years as a Key to Life Member. Brendan has been an absolute pleasure to train and always brings a can-do attitude to the sessions he attends. This work ethic and his active approach to life is why Brendan is our KTL Member of the Month for May. A huge congratulations to you Brendo you superstar.
Bowl of steaming hot beef, barley and vegetable soup ready to eat
By Key to Life Health and Fitness April 30, 2025
Enjoy this healthy and easy to make recipe for Beef, Barley and Vegetable Soup
Managing stress with a studio boxing session
By Key to Life Health and Fitness April 30, 2025
Discover how fitness activities like yoga, Pilates, and strength training help manage stress.
Woman stretching leg
By Key to Life Health and Fitness April 12, 2025
Explore warm-up & cool-down techniques: Key to Life Health and Fitness Eltham, Lower Plenty and Surrounding Area
More Posts