You know how overwhelming it is if you’ve ever dealt with abdominal pain or lower back pain, sprains, or strains. Even doing simple daily tasks, like cooking, holding your baby, walking, or standing, becomes difficult. The abdominal support belt is ideal for post-surgery and postpartum care. You’ve probably heard of Velcro and elastic abdominal belts. However, the question is which abdominal belt is best. Both Velcro and elastic are made to support your lower back, but they have different uses, and picking the right one can affect your recovery and performance.
A Velcro abdominal belt is designed with a Velcro strap closure for a customized, adjustable fit. In contrast, an elastic abdominal belt is crafted with stretchable fabric that provides gentle compression and warmth, improving blood circulation and reducing mild lower back pain or swelling. All of them protect your abdominal area from re-injury.
So let's understand the differences between a Velcro abdominal belt and an elastic abdominal belt, when you can wear them, and how they help.
Can I Wear an Elastic Abdominal Belt After Surgery?
You can wear an elastic abdominal belt after surgery; however, right after consulting with your doctor first. These belts are also called post-surgery abdominal belts or abdominal belts for C-section recovery. They are often used to provide support, reduce pain and swelling, and improve posture after C-section surgeries or during the postpartum phase. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions on when and how long to wear it. This promotes quicker yet effective recovery.
Instead of choosing uncomfortable, stiff belts, Leeford Ortho provides a design that supports gentle recovery with comfort and flexibility.
Do Velcro Belts Lose Grip Over Time?
Velcro abdominal belts can lose their grip over time for several reasons, which include:
- Trapped dust, lint, and other fibers prevent Velcro belts from interlocking properly.
- Cleaning the belt with hot water.
- Frequent and repeated use.
- Repeated fastening and unfastening.
- Using harsh chemical soap to wash the belt.
- Directly exposing the belt to sunlight.
However, you can extend its lifespan with proper care and cleaning. Here’s how you restore grip:
-
Clean the Velcro strap closure: Carefully remove trapped dirt and dust from the hook and loop strips.
-
Secure the straps after use: Place the Velcro belt in a closed place. This protects it from accumulating dirt or dust, preventing frequent washing, which may cause it to be worn out.
-
Wash and air dry: (If your doctor says you can wash the belt), make sure to air dry it completely to prevent damage to the material and ensure it can still stick.
Is an Elastic Abdominal Belt Good for Tummy Reduction?
An elastic abdominal belt is good for reducing belly fat when used properly. However, an elastic abdominal belt can help you appear slimmer by compressing your tummy, but it doesn’t actually reduce belly fat. If you want good and lasting results, combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Here’s how the belt helps you achieve a flattened tummy:
-
Compression: The gentle compression from the belt flattens the stomach and makes your waist look smaller; however, this result is not permanent.
-
Reduce water weight: Wearing the abdominal belt may cause you to sweat, especially when doing daily tasks or exercises. This helps to reduce weight from water, giving you a slimmer look.
Can I Sleep Wearing an Abdominal Belt?
Wearing an abdominal belt during sleep often interferes with the recovery process. Consult your doctor to determine if you should wear the compression abdominal belt while sleeping. The result is often influenced by the severity of your condition and your healing progress. There are several reasons why it’s not recommended to wear the belt to sleep, and these include:
-
Blood circulation interference: The belt can interrupt proper blood flow while sleeping.
-
Affects breathing: The abdominal belt for back pain can restrict lung capacity, which is vital for getting enough oxygen while sleeping.
-
Intensified discomfort: You might face challenges when sleeping, i.e, you may experience worsened pain with the abdominal belt on.
-
Muscle weakness: Wearing the belt for prolonged hours can make your muscles depend on the belt for support frequently.
-
Heartburn/indigestion: Sleeping with an abdominal belt may lead to gastroesophageal reflux, which causes heartburn.
-
Risks for post-surgery recovery: For surgical incisions, continuous compression can impair healing, which requires air and movement. It's best to wear a binder during the day and remove it at night.
You can wear an abdominal belt:
-
In daylight hours: Generally, it’s advised to wear your abdominal belt during the day, especially when doing activities that require extra support. You can wear it when carrying heavy things, doing laundry, or cooking.
-
As per your doctor’s advice: Healthcare experts commonly recommend wearing the compression abdominal belt after surgery or childbirth, typically for a specific number of hours during the day.
How Do I Clean an Abdominal Belt?
Cleaning your abdominal belt is a vital point that contributes to your overall recovery. Keep these points in mind when cleaning or maintaining your belt:
- Handwash the belt in cold, clean water. This protects its fabric from losing its elasticity.
- Add chemical-free soap to prevent skin irritation.
- Refrain from using an electric washer/machine washer when washing your belt.
- Avoid using laundry conditioners.
- Avoid drying the belt in direct sunlight. Instead, place it in an airy, shady area.
- Always place the belt in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it.
Final Thought
Support your body the right way. In the midst of post-surgery or postpartum phase, Leeford Ortho Abdominal Belt offers dependable, consistent reliable support and comfort.
To get the best results, make sure you:
- Wear it correctly and comfortably.
- Avoid sleeping with it on.
- Follow the abdominal belt cleaning guidelines/instructions.
- Adjust it gradually as your comfort improves.
The abdominal belt can be referred to as a post-surgery abdominal belt or an maternity belt after c section recovery. Always remember to consult your doctor to determine the timeline and duration you can wear the belt. The outcome depends on your condition, its severity, and the support it needs. Leeford Ortho Abdominal Belt is thoughtfully designed for individuals, balancing comfort, safety, and practicality through the stages of motherhood. Choose the right abdominal support to recover comfortably yet faster and keep performing at your best.
