Although there are ways we can naturally improve our posture finding the best posture corrector can make the world of difference and is a pain-free way to help keep our bodies in alignment all day.
We're all guilty of slouching and spending most of our time hunched over something, whether that be our computers, phones or even doing enjoyable tasks, like gardening. It's perfectly natural that throughout our daily lives, our posture can begin to slip up, but if our posture becomes too poor it can affect our spinal health, leading to back and neck problems and even forward head posture.
Best posture corrector shortlist:
• Best for everyday use: Vicorrect Posture Corrector
• Best for women: Dr. Arthritis Ladies Posture Support
• Best for men: Professional Posture Back Brace Posture Corrector
• Best for upper back pain: Anoopsyche Adjustable Upper Back Brace
• Best for lumbar support: NeoTech Care Adjustable Double Pull Lumbar Brace
A posture corrector is a great short-term solution for helping you to correct your posture. The harness pulls your muscles into position to prevent slouching and evenly distribute weight, helping to train your mind and body into holding a better posture position. You can find different correctors that target different areas of the spine, whether you're after an aid to alleviate upper back or neck pain.
We spoke to Owain Evans, DC MChiro MRCC, founder of Backspace Chiropractic Fitness in London. Whilst he advised that posture correctors are generally safe to use, it's always worth consulting your doctor or a chiropractor if you have persistent pain. Here, we look at why posture is so important and the best posture correctors, as well as other ways to improve your posture without a corrector.
The best posture correctors UK
Best posture corrector for everyday use
Description
The Vicorrect Posture Corrector is unisex and can be easily worn under t-shirts to act as a discreet back brace and straightener on an everyday basis. This kind of corrector is more designed for those with upper shoulder, back, and neck aches. The brace comes in two sizes - S/M and L/XL - with a size chart available on Amazon to find the right fit for you. The beige colour helps to make it more discreet but we wish more colours were available to suit other skin tones.
Customer review: "So I've had pain in my shoulder for months. Tried physio exercises, heat, ice, everything to stop my shoulder hurting and improve mobility. Got this as a last-ditched attempt to help before resigning myself to steroid injection treatment. Half an hour a day - less than a month later - shoulder is cured! Turns out I just had rubbish posture. Pretty comfortable to wear while being supportive, easy to put on and adjust. Has made the world of difference."
Pros
- Can be worn under clothes
- Unisex
- Comes in multiple size options
Cons
- Some reviewers found the straps tend to curl
Best posture corrector for upper back pain
Description
The Annopsyche Posture Corrector will provide the support your upper back is seeking, promoting blood circulation while relieving back pain, and helping to improve your overall spine health. Made of lightweight and breathable neoprene, the brace can comfortably be worn under a shirt, so you can correct your posture while you work or run errands. It comes in two colours - grey and black - and two sizes, though this is limited to S or M.
Customer review: "I had a similar product years ago, but it was not as well made and as comfortable as this one is. The extra padding to stop it digging into the armpits offers complete comfort. The quality is excellent, and I have no hesitation in recommending this to others as a pain reliever and bad posture corrector."
Pros
- Support shoulder pads
- Adjustable for best fit and comfort
- CE certified
Cons
- Some petite users found the brace too large, better suited to larger frames
Best posture corrector with convenient buckle
Description
The Cotill Back Brace Posture Corrector is more suitable for those with posture issues in the full length of the spine, or the thoracic spine, as it comes down to wrap around the waist to provide more support. Again, this brace is made from lightweight and breathable Neoprene so you needn't feel restricted, and it's suitable for both men and women in four different sizes. Start wearing it for 20-30 minutes a day and feel the difference.
Customer review: “I Have suffered from a recurrent back problem for many years and have been looking for a product that would support both my upper and lower back. This has been a godsend, it's comfortable, very supportive and well made. I can wear it for up to eight hours, so it's been perfect for a day at work or a day out. I find that it gives me more confidence as I don't feel that my back will give up on me when I wear it! I Cannot recommend this product enough, and the sellers are a delight!”
Pros
- Easy to use
- Provides full back support
Cons
- Can be seen through clothing as is quite bulky
Best posture corrector for budget
Description
This Modetro Sports Back Brace Posture Corrector is a great option if you're looking for an upper back brace that's more subtle. This corrector comes in beige or black, making it great if you like to wear white shirts or T-shirts. It's also not too bulky around the back and shoulders and is fully adjustable too. Crafted from a strong, lightweight, breathable fabric, it'll keep you comfortable, cool, and supported.
Customer review: "This product does exactly what it says it will do, but it will only work if you understand how to use it correctly! When properly adjusted, this product will be comfortable to wear to the point of you not even knowing it's there... as long as you maintain good posture. If you start to slouch or roll your shoulders forwards it becomes uncomfortable, which is your physical cue to check your posture and sit back up straight. "
Pros
- For men and women
- Easy to put on and fully adjustable
- Available in S, M and L
Cons
- The straps you pull don't have any indication that they are even on both sides
Best posture corrector for women
Description
Specifically designed for women by doctors, the Dr. Arthritis Ladies Posture Support is available in pink or black with a choice of three sizes. The thick secure strap system is made of soft Neoprene and non-slip so you can wear it with confidence, whether you need support or protection for the shoulders, lower back (lumbar region), or waist. Users also found it had great stretch and flexibility so you won't find it constraining to wear.
Customer review: "I have really poor posture get severe back pain from it. This is the second or third corrector I have tried. I'm fairly petite so have struggled to find a corrector small enough for me - this one fits really well and provides sufficient support."
Pros
- Comes in S, M, and L
- Information handbook with exercises and information
Cons
- Some reviewers struggled with the size guide
Best posture corrector for men
Description
Male and female bodies are different, especially in the upper back, shoulders, and chest. Unlike unisex correctors, the Professional Posture Back Brace Posture Corrector is tailored specifically for the male body based on the feedback of hundreds of men throughout the UK. The soft and thin neoprene straps won't pinch underarm hair and easily adjusts to fit chest sizes.
One review said: "I was a bit dubious in ordering this if I'm honest, simply down to the size as I'm a 48 chest, sometimes 50. But I need not have worried as it fits well. The product was well packed and arrived on time and instructions good, but you can work it out for yourself. I can certainly feel the difference. As soon as you put it on you can feel yourself being pulled back, but it's not uncomfortable. Great product and I'm looking forward to using it further."
Pros
- CE-certified posture support
- Can be worn under clothes
Cons
- Some found it difficult to adjust once on
Best posture corrector bra
Description
Another back support specifically designed with women in mind, the Leonisa Posture Corrector Front Fasten Bra is great if you don't like the idea of wearing a bra and a posture corrector at the same time. Available in a choice of four colours and multiple sizes, the bra is non-wired and has a wide elastic underbust band to both support the bust and compress. In the back, there's criss-cross PowerSlim posture corrector bands with the fastening in the front for easy wear and optimal back support.
Customer review: "This bra definitely helps with your posture. I have terrible posture and when I am wearing this bra, I am always aware to sit up straight. You might want to start with a few hours first until you get used to it. After wearing it all day it does get a bit uncomfortable. I imagine that is to be expected."
Pros
- Size guide is based on your bra size for a more accurate fit
Cons
- Some found it didn't offer as much support as a brace
Best for lumbar support
Description
This NeoTech Care Adjustable Double Pull Lumbar Brace is ideal if you feel like you need more support in your lower back, particularly lumbar and thoracic support. It is also a better fitting option for those with taller frames who find posture supports ride up under their arms. It's adjustable so it can fit snugly around your body and is suitable for both men and women.
Customer review: "Don't know what I would do without it. I've got a trapped disk nerve and was not able to sit for long or travel in the car, but I can do both now, I even managed a 5-hour car journey. It helps so much."
Pros
- Breathable material
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- Some reviewers found this lumbar support brace too long when sat down
Best for neck pain
Description
Those who experience neck pain may benefit from wearing a neck brace or neck support. The Velpeau Neck Brace is comfortable enough to wear while working from home, travelling, or watching TV. It provides support for the jaw and neck and limits movement to relieve pain and pressure in the spine. It's soft and non-rigid, ergonomically designed to fit under the chin whilst being lightweight and breathable.
Customer review: "The 3.5" one is great to wear when you're doing something that requires movement. It's shaped to sit on your collarbone so it's more effective and comfier to wear. I'm 5'6 and a clothes size 12 and I got the large one which is spot on."
Pros
- Users quickly feel the benefit of using this brace
- 100 per cent refund guarantee
Cons
- The sizing is a little confusing, so you may end up doing a bit of trial and error
Choosing the right posture corrector for you
Posture correctors can come in all shapes and sizes with some fitting around the waist and others strapping around the shoulders to try and improve our posture. Not everyone will have the same posture, and it may take a little trial and error to find the right posture corrector for you.
According to Owain Evans, there is no such thing as 'perfect posture'. Owain says, "Posture correctors are designed to pull your shoulder blades back and restrict slouching. This means your spine won’t be rounding forwards and your body weight will be distributed evenly through the spine, shoulders, and neck, helping to avoid any back and neck discomfort."
Look for a posture corrector that:
• Target area: Make sure your posture corrector is effective in one key area and that it's where you need it most. For example, if you find you have neck problems, it might be best to get a neck posture corrector.
• Ease of use: Think about your own dexterity and flexibility in choosing a posture corrector. Is easy to put on and take off for you? Some come with buckles or velcro which you may find easier to use.
• Fit/ adjustability: Look for one with fully adjustable straps so you can find the perfect fit for you. Most posture correctors will be uncomfortable at first, and you may find them a bit irritating around the clavicle, but this is normal, if your body has been used to being in the wrong posture, being in the correct posture will feel strange until you get used to it.
• Material: Are you sensitive to certain materials? Check the material is suitable for you and your planned usage. If you plan to wear it out and about, you may want to consider a more discreet or breathable option such as neoprene to keep you cool.
There are also alternatives, such as back support cushions, which might assist with short-term back pain and posture alignment when sitting. However, if you've previously suffered back, shoulder, and neck injuries that affect your joints and discs or if you have osteoarthritis or other musculoskeletal health problems, consult your GP or health professional before buying a posture corrector.
Do posture correctors really work?
Yes, if used correctly and in addition to easy exercises that help improve your posture.
While posture correctors are great when it comes to reminding us how much we're slouching and how we should really be holding ourselves on a daily basis, Owain says our body already has posture muscles that are perfectly designed to hold us upright.
"As with any muscle, if you don’t use them, you lose them! Wearing a posture corrector long term can mean that the harness does the job for your muscles and you may become reliant on the harness to hold yourself up rather than using and training your muscles into a good posture."
"That's why posture correctors are best used short-term for a week or two to help correct your posture. Your body will thank you for learning how to hold your body correctly without the use of products long-term!" Says Owain.
You can retrain your muscles and learn to recognise bad posture habits by wearing a posture corrector for short periods, such as an hour a day.
Can you correct years of bad posture?
In a bid to try and save our posture and stop us from slouching, many of us are investing in posture correctors to prevent slouching and sort out our poor posture for good! However, using a posture corrector is step one on your journey to better back health.
If you've had a hunched stance for years, you can still make improvements to your posture using a corrector and specialised exercises such as aerial yoga that tighten your abdominal muscles. It can often also just be a matter of improving your daily habits.
Whether it's over our phones or over the sink doing the washing up, carrying bags of shopping, or other physical activity, our daily activities have us slouching a little too often, and over time, this constant slouched position can often have us feeling neck and shoulder pains. By making a conscious effort not to hunch, you can help to alleviate these aches and pains over time.
How long does it take to correct posture?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, making a habit of good posture a part of your daily routine could help you to see improvements in your posture in six to 12 weeks.
What habits can lead to bad posture?
Unfortunately, lots of habits from our daily lives can lead to bad posture, and neck and back pain, such as:
• Looking down at your phone or leaning over a keyboard
• Wearing heels
• Sitting for long periods of time
• Not exercising
• Carrying heavy bags, or lifting wrong
• Wearing an ill-fitting bra
• Stress
• Driving for long periods
• Sleeping on your stomach
• Your diet and smoking
Posture corrector - how to use one safely
Owain says if you’re ever experiencing persistent back or neck pain or other symptoms such as headaches or mobility issues, you should always seek the advice of a chiropractor for expert support before investing in a posture corrector.
"Posture correctors are generally safe when used as an educational tool for achieving good posture, but if you experience any discomfort when wearing the harness, seek a chiropractor’s advice."
Do wear your posture corrector for short periods of time.
Do take note of how your back feels when it is in correct posture.
Do exercise in addition to wearing your posture corrector.
Don't wear your posture corrector every day, or for whole days.
Don't let yourself slouch back into the bad posture as soon as you remove your posture corrector.
Don't think of your posture corrector as the fix.
How to improve your posture
As all our bodies are so different in shape and size, we all have different posture that works for us and our bodies. There are however some ways we can find our posture when we feel a little uncomfortable, says Owain.
"If you're sitting for long periods, try to sit back into your chair, use your chair's lumbar support to preserve the curve in your low back, and lean back into your chair to give your postural muscles a break. For your neck, roll your shoulders backwards and down away from your ears. These positions will help evenly distribute your weight and maintain the natural curvature of your spine."
If your chair is not equipped with lumbar support, you can buy back supports for office chairs to ensure you're maintaining the best posture as you work or sit.
"You can also improve your posture by simply getting up and moving around every 20-30 minutes. This can make a massive difference as you’re changing your posture regularly (an easy trick is to stand up every time you’re on the phone).
"My other top tip is to take a quick walk around your garden or neighbourhood or do some simple stretches while the kettle is boiling for a cuppa. Try to incorporate a good balance of exercises throughout your week to help keep your muscles and joints working as they should, this will also relieve some of the discomforts you feel whilst at work; I would recommend a mix of cardiovascular and strengthening exercises such as Pilates and dancing for anyone experiencing postural issues."
About the expert
Owain Evans, DC MChiro MRCC, founder of Backspace Chiropractic Fitness in London is a passionate public speaker and educator, with years of experience in not only teaching and mentoring other chiropractors but giving talks to doctors, students and the general public.
Lorna White has been a Digital Writer for Yours since 2020. She has a keen interest in a range of topics, from potty training and nutrition to baby names and maternity fashion.
