How do posture correctors work?

The best posture correctors are in high demand right now, although that’s not the really surprising thing. With the pandemic making many homebound, millions of us have spent too many hours over the past year and a half slumped on the couch. Although that may seem comfortable, over time we adopt a rounded posture that promises to wreak havoc on mental and physical health.

In fact, even if you have done the right thing and have sat in a suitable position, it is very likely that you have developed bad posture habits. Using a posture corrector to improve your posture will help break these habits. And with better posture, we will look more attractive, with less stress, it will be easier to breathe and we will suffer fewer tension headaches.

Functioning of posture runners

If our body is misaligned, this puts unnecessary pressure on the muscles and ligaments. A posture corrector is a device used to position the muscles of the back in the correct alignment and thus realign the body in the proper position.

Posture correctors are made from a wide variety of materials, such as neoprene or spandex, and some incorporate hard elements such as a disc or rod to provide additional support. They can usually be worn discreetly under normal clothing. However, posture correctors are not designed to be worn forever.

The idea is that they re-educate you and develop muscle memory, so that you can form good posture habits and stick with them once you stop using the posture corrector.

What types are there?

Today, there are many different types of posture correctors on the market.

  • Posture corrector with closure on the chest . These devices are worn over the shoulders and upper half of the back. The tension pushes your chest and shoulders back, so sit or stand. These are probably the most common posture correctors on the market today. Although they don’t offer as much support as other options, they are lightweight and not too bulky, making them great for everyday wear and tear.
  • Posture correctors with back closure. It is somewhat like a vest and extends from the shoulders to the hips. Similar to the chest brace, they pull the shoulders back to encourage proper posture, but they also provide all the way to the spine. Although they are arguably more effective, especially for those with severe posture problems and / or back pain, they are less common because they are heavy and bulky.

correctores de postura

How to choose the best posture correctors?

Depending on the type of posture corrector we choose, it can be made of one or more materials. Nylon and neoprene are common materials for corset-type posture correctors because these materials are strong and durable. Plastic or metal strips are included in some back posture correctors to physically align the back in the correct position, but other devices use the tension from the straps to do the same job.

If you plan to use this accessory to improve posture under clothing, choose a material that does not feel harsh or uncomfortable against the skin. In addition, you must take into account other types of characteristics.

Size

Some shoulder harness posture correctors are one size fits all, while others come in sizes from extra small to extra large. Please see the item description for a size chart to help you determine which size is right for you. Don’t just buy the clothing size that you normally wear, as sizes are not universal and it is important that it fits correctly for it to work well.

The size guide can tell you how to measure the body. Be careful as it will vary depending on the type of posture device you choose and the brand. If you are taller or shorter than average, we also recommend that you measure yourself before purchasing a one-size-fits-all option.

Comfort

You will be using your posture device regularly, so choose one that is comfortable. Any posture corrector feels a bit strange when you get used to it, but any slight discomfort shouldn’t last more than a few days if you choose it carefully.

All posture handles pull on the shoulders, but these wide straps help distribute pressure evenly so you don’t feel uncomfortable. The heavily padded shoulder straps also make a posture device more comfortable, but also provide more warmth.

Appearance of posture correctors

There’s no way shoulder harness posture correctors aren’t great. They tend to come in basic colors, usually black, nude, or white, and they look completely utilitarian rather than trendy. But that does not matter.

Since you can wear a posture device under clothing, no one has to see it. We should not be concerned with what a posture corrector looks like, especially if it does its job effectively.

Adjustability

A posture device should have some degree of adjustment so that you can tighten or loosen it as necessary to find the correct fit. One useful feature is the ability to adjust the posture corrector as you wear it.

If you can’t do this, getting the fit right can be uncomfortable and time-consuming as you have to remove the device. Think about how much it will cost to adjust, reassign and reinforce the whole process until you get it right.

Posture Corrector Prices

Basic chest support devices can be around 10-15 euros, although paying an additional 10 euros to buy one in the 20-25 euro range guarantees a stable and more comfortable device. The high-end models are usually priced between € 40 and € 60.

Posture correctors for straight posture tend to be a bit more expensive, probably because of the additional material required. Basic options start at around € 20, though slightly more is expected from those that cost € 30-50.

Are they recommended to improve posture?

Doctors and chiropractors agree that posture correctors can work, but only up to a point. They cannot solve our posture problem on their own. Its primary purpose is simply to educate us to develop good posture habits.

If used temporarily in this way, they can help improve posture. However, it is worth recognizing that the best way to develop good posture over time is by improving your strength and flexibility. By using a posture corrector in combination with the right exercises, it should be possible to help strengthen your back, neck and shoulders for a couple of months, at which point you should no longer need the posture corrector.

Posture correctors are considered safe, provided they are used correctly in consultation with a doctor or chiropractor. However, they should only be used as a temporary measure. Long-term use will cause the muscles to weaken as the posture corrector struggles to support the weight, which can make the problem worse and even cause serious injury.