Customer Reviews

Futuro Stabilizing Back Support, Large/X-Large

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Having tried several types of back supports, this is the first time that getting up from the bed or chair or just walking around while wearing this product has reduced my back and side pain. In my case, my pain is from the lower spinal discs. I take medication, see my doctor and receive injections when the pain becomes intolerable. I'm always looking for any small way I can reduce the daily pain from walking or sometimes just getting in and out of a chair or the bed. The Futuro Back Support is comfortable, easy to adjust, simple to put on, and best of all - it works for me.

After reading some of the higher rated reviews I had thought that this item would be the ticket for me. I should have read all the reviews. I ordered it and received it promptly. Personally, I think the term "back brace" as used in some reviews is misleading, and perhaps this is what tripped me up.

The sides consist of two 1/16" thick elastic bands and one 1/8" thick soft mesh weave (for a combined 1/4"), and for the back there are two small pads almost 1" thick that are meant to nestle into either side of your spine at the small of your back for support...which would work great if your spine is a protruding ridge to be cradled. You might want to think about that one as you reach back and feel your backbone there.

This support does encourage you not to slouch excessively when sitting down at the computer, and I think that its real benefits fairly well stop right there. If this is what you need, then it might help you. However, this is no miracle cure that will transform your aching back into what it was when you were fit and agile. Not that you would expect it to do this, but we do tend to have higher hopes than what a product can deliver. Really though, at its price you can't expect a whole lot.

As for strapping this on and going out and packing firewood or shoveling heavy wet snow, think again. This is not a sturdy enough item to give you a safety margin when lifting or straining if you have a back that tends to give you fits. Picture this item as being something that will tuck in your pot belly a little and give you a slight edge with lifting and sitting because it keeps you aware of your back. It is essentially a wide, fairly weak, big rubber band that you attach with Velcro that may or may not last and must be hand washed and not tumble dried. Are you sure this is what you want? If you are a burly guy working construction or a tired mother packing around a heavy kid and you have back issues, I would consider stepping up to something a little more robust. Some of the very positive comments concerning this product leave me scratching my head in wonder.

Lest you think I am being too negative, written plainly on the box is this statement: "Sleek, non-bulky design will not restrict movement." Thus, it is no brace. I needed something that would prevent me from making certain movements, so if this is your situation also then you likely need something else.

This seems to be a good product. The pads on the back of the brace are pretty intrusive though, pressing about an inch of foam into your back. You should try something like that before buying this.

IMPORTANT: The sizing isn't very good. I am a 33 inch waist, and the S/M is almost too small for me. It certainly wouldn't fit a 39 inch waist like the description implies. If you have a 34 inch waist or above, get the larger size.

I have a lousy back, and I love to walk, sometimes for miles at a time. I could not do this without this brace. Since I live in Florida, I need something that will not be uncomfortable in the hot weather.

This brace holds my back in place comfortably, and allows me to exercise.
I have a few of them that have been cleaned in the washing machine many times. I use warm water, and dry it on low. They have held up beautifully!

Within 30 seconds of wearing this product, I could tell that it had no therapeutic value. It is merely a girdle that provides no lumbar support.

Very good and very comfortable to wear. Following lower back surgery I now wear this when I plan on sitting for long periods such as evenings after dinner watching TV or reading or when working at mt computer. It helps to correct posture and keep a firmer back.

The only draw back is velcro. After about a year the velcro will have lost its gripping power and the support will have to be replaced. I have found no way to revive velcro once it goes bad. I would prefer snaps, hooks or a belt like system for closure.

Great brace for the price ! Be careful on the sizing between the s/m & l/xl. If your at the end of the spectrum on the s/m,(according to their sizing ?) go with the l/xl . Had to learn the hard way myself ! Other than that, overall it's a great brace.

this is a great support for people sitting all day in front of a compter or driving long trips.

What more can I say? Sizes like "X Large" are necessarily vague. I'm 6'2", 225 lbs. That hardly makes me a giant in 21st century America. Also, the straps and velcro wrap all over the place. The tough fit makes the awkward straps/velcro worse.

I was skeptical when I pulled this out of the box but it is comfortable and sturdy. My back feels so much better.