Bracing: An Osteoporosis Treatment Option
The majority of osteoporosis-related fractures occur in the wrist, spine, or hip. Your doctor may recommend a brace if you have a fracture—particularly if you have a spinal fracture.
You may need to wear a brace if you have an extreme amount of back pain. A brace will support your spine and help the vertebrae (bones) heal from a spinal compression fracture.
A brace works by essentially restricting movement to the affected area. Your back is supported primarily by your vertebrae and back muscles. When osteoporosis weakens your vertebrae, your muscles have to work overtime to support your back. By restricting movement, the brace takes the extra burden off your muscles.
Your doctor will recommend the best back brace for you. You will likely only wear a brace for a short period of time because you don’t want to become dependent on it. You need to strengthen your bones to become healthy again, and a brace will prevent your bones and muscles from working as hard as they could—and should.
Similar to a back brace, a cast or splint may help heal a simple wrist fracture by preventing movement at the fractured site. In most cases, you will wear it for six to eight weeks. During this time, you may also be going to physical therapy to help maintain strength.
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