How long can you wear bandages or orthoses in total?
Whether during the day, at night, or only under strain: when and for how long an aid should be worn depends on the specific diagnosis, the type of bandage or orthosis, and the treatment goal.
How long should a bandage or orthosis be worn per day?
In general, bandages and orthoses are intended to support movement. The recommended duration of wear depends on the diagnosis, the type of aid, and the treatment goal. Typically, bandages and orthoses are worn for several hours during the day. With some products, the body is gradually accustomed to wearing the orthosis (for example, with Spinomed back orthoses), or the duration of wear is adjusted according to the course of therapy, as with the Levamed stabili-tri.
In cases of acute complaints or during the early rehabilitation phase, wearing orthoses for several hours – sometimes even all day – may be necessary. In later phases, it is often sufficient to wear the orthosis only during physical strain or specific activities. The goal is to gradually reduce the use of the orthosis in order to strengthen the body’s own stability. An exception is orthoses used for the permanent correction of misalignments, such as in knee osteoarthritis.
Some products are also designed for specific use and are mainly worn during particular physical activities such as sports.
Important: Always consult your doctor to determine the appropriate duration of wear for your bandage or orthosis.
Should you wear a bandage or orthosis at night as well?
Whether wearing bandages or orthoses at night is necessary depends on the medical indication. In certain cases – for example, to immobilize the body after an injury or surgery – wearing them at night can be beneficial. In general, you should only wear your bandage at night if instructed by a doctor or after consulting with an orthopedic technician. Continuous compression during the night can be uncomfortable or even counterproductive.
Spinomed back orthoses should be removed at night.
When should you remove a brace or bandage?
Bandages and orthoses should generally be removed if they cause pain, irritate the skin, or cut into it. During periods of rest – such as lying down or sleeping – it is often advisable to take them off, unless there is a medical reason to wear them. It is also important to regularly check the skin for pressure marks and to give the body some "device-free" time.
What are the recommended wearing times for Spinomed back braces?
The initial wearing instructions are determined by a physician. During the approximately two-week adjustment phase, the Spinomed active should be worn gradually. Depending on physical condition, a continuous wearing time of just 30 minutes may be sufficient at first.
As therapy progresses, the duration of wear can be gradually increased. You may experience mild to moderate muscle soreness due to the strengthening effect – a positive sign that the orthosis is working! As your muscle strength improves, this soreness will subside.
More wearing instructions and care tips for bandages and orthoses are available.
