Abdominal Belts: What Is It Used For & How to Use?

Abdominal belts, also known as abdominal supports, are compression belts designed to encircle the abdomen. They are available in a wide range of widths and sizes to serve different purposes. A huge chunk of the belts is cut from electric material that also includes a loop or Velcro closure.

In some instances, the abdominal binders are meant to provide secondary lumbar support. Alternatively, they are created to secure surgical drainage tubes.  Abdominal belts are also utilized to expedite the healing process after undergoing a surgical procedure. Examples of surgical procedures that may need an abdominal belt include spinal, tummy tuck, hysterectomy, exploratory, and bariatric surgery. Primarily, binders are recommended for older adults with spinal cord injuries. They are worn to elevate respiratory function, maintain abdominal pressure and offer abdominal support.

Using Abdominal Belts

Depending on the type of surgical procedure that you have undergone, you are very likely to come out of the operation room with an abdominal belt. For quick post-surgery recovery, you will be expected to wear the binder for at least six weeks. Besides speeding up the healing process, the belts help to alleviate pain associated with the surgical procedure. In the same vein, abdominal belts are also worn by folks with spinal injuries for support and seamless breathing.

You need to choose compression belts that complement your body size for optimal functionality. To pick an ideal binder, you need to go for one that can sufficiently cover the widest body part which is often the waist for men and hips for women. The belt can be bound around the abdomen and secured by the closure at the front.

When fastening the belt, make sure it fits snugly rather than too tight or too loose. In this manner, it will provide abdominal support and still give you some ample breathing room. It is important to ensure the abdominal belt is dry and clean at all times. A dirty or wet binder is likely to cause skin irritation. In addition, such a belt heightens the chances of contracting an infection. Cleaning the belt is easy. Most are spot-cleaned and then put through air drying depending on the instructions of the manufacturer.

Benefits of Utilizing Abdominal Belts

Wearing abdominal binders is known to relieve pain after a surgical procedure. Additionally, it helps to reduce swelling besides promoting movement and supporting surgical incisions. As mentioned before, the binders are excellent for people with spinal injuries. The belt structure keeps the body structure in an upright posture to fasten the healing process.

Challenges of Using Abdominal Binders

 Abdominal binders are not all rosy. They also bear some drawbacks. At the top of the list of potential limitations of these belts is discomfort. Wearing the belts for an extended period is bound to make it hot and uncomfortable. As much as the binders are designed to alleviate pain, they are likely to make things worse. Other than that, the binders exert undue pressure around the abdominal areas which can lead to breathing difficulty.  These supportive belts are also associated with rashes, itching, and allergic reactions among other forms of skin irritation. To avert adverse skin problems, it is prudent to go for belts crafted from hypoallergenic fabric. Moreover, abdominal binders have also been linked to deep vein thrombosis.    

Abdominal Belts Are Worth It

There are many benefits that you can reap from utilizing abdominal belts in the right manner. The binders offer adequate support for people with spinal injuries besides relieving pain and speeding up the healing process after surgery. Always consult your doctor before opting for an abdominal binder.