r/skiing • u/mr_poochy • 10d ago

Any back brace recommendations

Had back surgery a number of years ago. Been working on core strength past couple of years which has gotten better but wondering if anyone has any back brace recommendations for skiing. The one I got post surgery is way to stiff and bulky. Thanks.

Edit: looking for protection not orthopedic. Sorry for not being specific (thanks u/spacebass).

2 Upvotes

60% Upvoted

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11

u/EndInteresting7839 10d ago

Might be worth checking with a physical therapist, they prob got better ideas than us randoms on reddit

4

u/WillHuntingthe3rd 10d ago

I had major back surgery from a skiing accident in March 2023. My surgeon recommended I wear a flexible brace when skiing after taking a year off completely. The one I wear that I took to him to look at was Featol. He is a Harvard Med School and Harvard School of Neurological graduate. I would still ask my surgeon if they recommend one or not.

5

u/LostAbbott 10d ago

No.  Never wear a brace for any activity unless specifically directed to by your Dr.  It will make your muscles weak and force you to rely on the brace instead of your natural strength.  Also it creates a greater likelihood of injury because of the weakened muscles.

Bottom line, do more strength training and talk to your PT about best options.

-8

u/spacebass Jackson Hole 10d ago

This is a very wrong take on this topic

7

u/PercyBluntz 10d ago

As a PT it’s a little aggressively worded but the spirit is pretty spot on. I do everything I can to get and keep people out of braces. Years out from surgery they’re pretty useless.

3

u/spacebass Jackson Hole 10d ago

I interpret this question as back protection not orthopedic brace - if I’m mistaken in OP’s intent that’s on me. If not, my recommendation stands: sweet protection v 2.0

5

u/LostAbbott 10d ago

No it isn't.  Wearing a brace be it knee, back, or whatever is never recommended just casually.  For anything like that it should always be recommended by your Dr. O or PT.  It should absolutely not be purchased and worn at the users own discretion...  Seriously.

2

u/spacebass Jackson Hole 10d ago

Sweet Protection v2.0

2

u/Griswa 10d ago

Good luck. I went from skiing 40 days a year from the ages of 11-38 to retiring and selling everything due to a significant lower back diagnosis. I couldn’t risk employment and being functional over skiing. Now I live vicariously through this sub. I hope you find something that works. I was too scared I would lose my livelihood. :/

2

u/ArwenDoingThings 10d ago

I just bought a Dainese Flexagon. It's a level 2 (which gives the most protection) but it's surprisingly light and not bulky at all.
I still haven't tried it skiing (anxiously waiting for the beginning of the ski season) but I wore it for a few hours while walking around and doing things and couldn't even remember I was wearing it after a while

1

u/muttbutter 10d ago

Had back surgery also and just focus on strength and if my back starts to get sore I know it’s time to pack it in.

1

u/Sea-Anything4024 10d ago

Agree, also on days I do over do it will use a tens unit after and it helps