Back Belts Do Not Reduce Back Injuries

Back belts AKA weight lifting belts or back support belts, are meant to be worn by people performing manual handling or lifting weights. They are generally worn around the lower (lumbar) back and made occasionally with shoulder straps. People who wear back belts may get the impression that they will get additional back support. This, on the other hand, may be misleading since the support from the back belt doesn’t equate to a reduction of stress on the spine and surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Back belts do not reduce the forces on the spine. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), back belts provide a insignificant reduction in compressive force. They also do not reduce the strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Studies show that belts do not change the activity levels of spinal muscles in any posture.

Back belts also do not reduce muscle fatigue or increase the maximum weight able to be lifted. Using back belts should not be endorsed for lifting heavier weights especially if the user wrongfully thinks they have increased lifting ability.

Wearing a back belt has a similar effect on the abdominal muscles to holding your breath increasing the pressure on the abdominal muscles which can lead to stiff and exaggerated postures. They also have been shown to increase blood pressure and breathing rate. Increased blood pressure and breathing rate can increase the risk of heart attacks.

Back belts don’t reduce the chance of injury or reduce back pain according to two NIOSH studies from 1994-2000. back injury claims. The bottom line is they should not be endorsed with broken promises which can put you or your workforce at risk of a serious injury.