The best back braces of 2024, according to experts

Sizes: Small, medium, large; plus sizes available but cost extra | Best for: Herniated disc, sciatica, scoliosis, lower back pain, arthritis | Level of support: Medium compression, reinforced lumbar support | Material: Felt, Velcro, elastic | Extra features: Extra lumbar pad

The MODVEL back brace offers an affordable, easy-to-use solution to various back problems, including herniated discs, arthritis, scoliosis, and lower back pain. It’s lightweight and made with breathable fabric so that it can be comfortably worn under clothing during physical activity. With double-sided stabilizers and an adjustable lumbar pad, it provides support and extra compression while still allowing movement. Bonus: It’s machine washable and FSA-eligible!

There are six sizes ranging from small to plus size, but it’s worth noting that the price varies depending on size. While small, medium, and large are all priced at less than $35, the plus-size brace is more than twice as much.

Sizes: One size fits most | Best for: Fracture, herniated disc, arthritis, post-surgery, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, cervical spondylosis, and sprains | Level of support: Semi-rigid

A $90 price tag might seem pretty hefty, but for a medical-grade back brace, it’s about as affordable as it gets. What really makes the Brace Align LSO back brace stand out is the removable panel and easy-pull tabs. With most back braces, adjustments are done using the straps. The Brace Align LSO brace has a unique pulley system that allows for easy adjustments for those with arthritis or upper body weakness.

It’s a semi-rigid brace that offers a high level of stability for those with various conditions involving spinal discs, fractures, or sciatica. However, it also features a removable back panel, so you can increase your mobility as you recover.

While it only comes in one size, there is an extension belt available. The extension belt is sold separately and can extend the brace enough to fit a 66-inch waist.

Sizes: Small, medium, large, XL-6XL | Best for: Sciatica, herniated disc, pinched nerve, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolysis, chronic back pain | Level of support: Maximum support and compression | Material: Aluminum, polypropylene silicone, velvet, plastic, polyvinyl chloride | Extra features: Spring stays, aluminum stays, adjustable dual elastic stays, 360-degree support

I know, I know, spending over $200 on a back brace seems wild, but hear me out! Disc Descease Solution’s decompression brace is top-notch and one of a kind thanks to being “The Original Spinal Decompression Belt,” backed by 4 US Patents. What really sets it apart is the hand pump with an easy-to-read PSI gauge for customized treatment. Dave Candy, a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, tells us, "I commonly recommend [the] back decompression brace by Disc Disease Solutions. These types of back braces lift and unload the spine, not just compress it like regular back braces." 

The back support belt has a soft cotton lining and is designed to conform to the natural curvature of the spine for maximum comfort and excellent support. And to top it off, it’s easy to wear under clothing and it’s machine washable. One relieved user with two herniated discs - one is bulging - and a fractured vertebrae said, "If I could, I’d give this belt a million-star rating." Another user mentioned it was, "The only belt that gave me pain relief for my pregnancy-related back pain."

Sizes: One size fits most | Best for: Lower back pain, sciatica, dysmenorrhea | Level of support: Customizable stability | Material: Fabric, carbon fiber |Extra features: Rechargeable, three heating temperatures, three vibration modes, two-way power supply 7.4 volt, USB charger, Velcro battery pocket, adjustable elastic strap

The back support brace from Cueheat isn’t your typical back brace: it's equipped with heat and massage therapy. “Heat has a pretty good track record of benefit,” Loafman tells us, “Some recent studies even suggest that heat should replace ice in most situations, including recent injury.” Of course, he warns that more research is needed, (and discussions with your own healthcare provider are always recommended,) but there’s no denying how helpful heat therapy can be in reducing muscle pain. The brace has two removable columns for customizable stability and offers cordless, battery-operated heat-based massage therapy for targeted pain relief.  

Back pain aside, this brace can also be used for pain associated with menstrual cramps. On top of that, it has a vibrating massage component. You can plug it in or use the cordless battery pack, which is great if you don’t want to be restricted to sitting next to the nearest outlet. The 1,400 five-star reviews raving about the back brace's ability to relieve many ailments has us all wanting one. The only downfall is that it’s not washable due to the heating and massage mechanisms, so spot clean with a damp cloth.

Sizes: Small, large, XL | Works for: Herniated disc, sciatica, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, lumbar support | Level of support: Medium compression with extra lumbar support | Material: Nylon | Extra features: Adjustable lumbar pad, flexible elastic mesh, firm support stays, secure Velcro, breathable fabric

As we age, one thing that affects us all is the impact of wear and tear on the spine. The cushioning between the vertebrae in our spine gets more fragile and becomes much more susceptible to herniated or slipped discs, which can be extremely painful and, at times, debilitating. The Sparthos lower back support brace is one that is great for minor back discomfort or herniated disc(s). It is also effective as a preventative measure to ward off back pain when doing a task that puts repeated pressure on the back and spine, such as heavy lifting or even gardening.  

Designed with firm vertical stays and an adjustable lumbar pad to provide extra support, the Sparthos brace provides stability and pain relief almost instantly, thanks to lifting the load on your disc. The dual compression straps are easily adjustable for more or less flexibility, depending on your needs. It comes in three sizes – small, large, and extra-large. While sizing is limited and somewhat confusing, you can easily find the appropriate brace for your size by following the manufacturer's instructions for taking your waist measurement.

Sizes: Small, medium, large, XL, XXL | Best for: Lumbar support, lower back pain, herniated disc, sciatica, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease | Level of support: Maximum compression | Material: Aluminum, polypropylene, silicone, velvet, plastic, polyvinyl chloride | Extra features: Adjustable dual elastic straps, two silicone anti-skid bands, four Memory-aluminum stays, four4-way stretch elastic material

The Freetoo back brace has a whopping six aluminum stays to provide serious lumbar support. The elastic straps can easily be pulled tight for added compression and lumbar support when needed most, and thanks to the double seams, you'll never need to worry about the brace coming apart when pulled tight. The back brace is also equipped with two silicone anti-skid bands on either side to keep the brace in place - this is not a common feature and we appreciate it so much. Another cool feature (and we mean "cool") is the lightweight, four-way stretch material designed with breathable mesh channels to help keep your back from becoming a sweaty mess. This brace is designed extremely well, built to last, and accommodates a wide range of sizes. And don't just take our word for it; there are nearly 17,000 five-star reviewers singing its praises as well.

Sizes: XS/small, medium, large, XL/XXL | Works best for: Exercise, heavy lifting, bending, lumbar support | Level of support: Medium compression with maximum lumbar support | Material: Neoprene | Extra features: Detachable Y-shaped suspenders, two ergonomic lumbar pads, high compression, CoolMax lining

Even if you don’t have any back problems, if you regularly engage in heavy lifting, there’s a heightened risk of strain or injury. Wearing a brace while performing strenuous activities can help prevent potential damage by stabilizing the spine and promoting proper form. Imagine spending the weekend moving or spreading mounds of mulch without any pain during or after. This brace makes that your new normal.

The AllyFlex Sports back brace is designed to provide the back support necessary during bending and lifting. It features detachable, easily adjustable Y-shape suspenders and lumbar pads on either side for extra lumbar support. We also love the multi-layer design that keeps you cool, supported and stable. For those in warm climates or prone to sweating, you’ll love the inner layer that features moisture-wicking CoolMax fabric that helps to keep you cool and dry. The second layer of perforated neoprene provides extra compression for added support. Finally, the outer nylon layer ensures extra durability.

Sizes: One size fits most | Best for: Lower back pain, lumbar support | Level of support: Semi-rigid medium compression | Material: Plastic | Level of support: Semi-rigid medium compression | Material: Plastic | Extra features: Dual- sided removable lumbar pad, removable hot/cold pack, four4 flexible stays 

After an injury, it’s generally recommended that you alternate cold and heat therapy. Cold can reduce swelling and inflammation, which is why it’s best in the first 24 to 72 hours. Heat, on the other hand, helps reduce muscle pain and stiffness. So, why not find a brace that allows you to do both?

The Mueller 4-in-1 brace comes with a reusable gel pack that can be used hot or cold, depending on your injury. It also comes with a reversible lumbar pad – one side is padded while the other is rigid, so you can customize it to fit your needs. It only comes in one size, so measure your waist before buying to ensure it will fit.

Sizes: Small, medium, large | Best for: Posture, scoliosis, lumbar support | Level of support: Medium compression and lumbar support | Material: Neoprene | Extra features: Breathable material, double straps, easy to clean, 2-in-1 back support and corrector

Did you know prolonged sitting with a slumped posture could increase the risk of having lower back pain? It’s true. Thankfully, posture-correcting back braces are available to both get your posture on track and your back out of whack. While many posture-correcting back braces only support the middle and upper back, Fit Geno’s posture-corrector brace delivers full coverage targeted support. It gently pulls your shoulders up and back to help promote good posture and deliver lumbar support. Made from moisture-wicking and breathable material, the brace’s lightweight design makes it easy to wear under clothing. And best of all, it’s machine washable!