Back protector

Back protectors are designed to protect the spine during sports that pose a high risk of falling at high speed. For motorcyclists it is obligatory to wear back protectors, so that they are usually already integrated into the special motorcycle clothing. In any case, such protectors must comply with the CE EN1621-2 test standard.

But also for other sports like snowboarding, skiing or inline skating it is useful to wear back protectors. Although these do not have to comply with the above mentioned standard, they should still carry a seal of approval from TÜV. In addition, they should absolutely reach from the neck to the lumbar area to protect the spine over its entire length.

Basically, a distinction is made between hard shell protectors and soft protectors. The hard shell protectors are reminiscent of a kind of armour. They are worn over clothing similar to a rucksack and consist of overlapping elements made of plastic and leather.

The advantage of these hard-shell protectors is that they not only cushion the fall in case of a fall, but also prevent sharp objects from drilling into the back. The disadvantage is that they adapt less well to the body contour and restrict the freedom of movement somewhat. Soft protectors, on the other hand, are made mainly of soft foam and thus adapt optimally to the contours of the body.

Like an undershirt, they are worn underneath the clothing, do not slip and are only light in weight. However, they offer less protection in case of an impact. Regardless of which model you choose, they should provide high impact absorption (preferably a residual impact force of less than 8,000 Newton). In addition, the protector should fit well, not slip but not restrict the wearer. Normally, the back protector offers 5 years of safe protection – but after a fall it must be replaced, even if it looks undamaged from the outside.

Back Bandage

For back pain, back bandages are a good alternative to painkillers. They have no side effects and serve to support, maintain and relieve the back, especially the lumbar spine. They give the user support and ensure an upright posture.

Accordingly, they are suitable not only for back pain, but also for its prevention. For example, it makes sense to put on a back bandage during heavy physical activity. Back bandages usually consist of an elastic and breathable net and fabric material with tension straps and look like a wide belt or kidney warmer.

In most cases, the user can put the back support on by himself without further help. Depending on whether the back support is intended for acute care and pain relief, rehabilitation or prevention, the back supports differ in their structure and function. For example, many back supports have a pad incorporated which is equipped with massage nubs: if the user moves, the massage nubs press on the muscles, stimulating the blood circulation and releasing tension.

Other models are equipped with integrated rods to ensure optimal straightening of the lumbar spine. Back supports with integrated air cushions follow the same principle. Back supports are available via the Internet or medical supply stores. The latter have the advantage that trained personnel select a suitable model and check the fit.