Lifting Belts: A Review

This article reviews and evaluates the literature related to the effectiveness of protective restraints on abdominal strength, lower back injuries, and workers' discomfort. The studies indicate that back belts have potential disadvantages as well as advantages. Belts seem to reduce lifting stress. They may, however, lead to a false sense of security while being worn and may also weaken the body, so injury occurs when they are not being worn. There also seems to be comfort problems with some belts. More scientific research is needed before any conclusions can be drawn about positive, negative, or long-term effects of lifting belts.