if you spend a lot of time sitting-and let’s be honest, most of us do-you’ve probably thought about a posture corrector. These devices promise to fix slouching, alleviate back pain, and generally help you stand taller. But do they actually work, or are they just another wellness fad?

We spent weeks testing a variety of posture correctors, from simple straps to more elaborate wearable devices, and consulted with experts to find out. Here’s what we learned.

How do posture correctors work?

Posture correctors aren’t a one-size-fits-all cure for slouching or hunched backs.Think of them as little gentle wake-up calls for your muscles-the ones that have been slacking off while you hunch over your laptop. These tools come in all shapes and designs,but the best ones address the muscle imbalances created by our everyday habits.They’re not supposed to hold you in place (and if they do, that’s a red flag). Overly rigid correctors can actually weaken your muscles by doing all the work for you.

Rather, posture correctors are more like training wheels. They guide your body toward better alignment and then let your muscles take over. “I would compare it to when you were a kid and your mom poked you to sit up straight at the dinner table,” says physician Matthew smith.”The goal is not to wear this forever. The goal is to be able to change your posture on your own from here on out.”

Are posture correctors safe to use daily?

Yes(ish), but not all day and you wouldn’t want to. Posture correctors are designed for short-term use. Wearing one all day can backfire by weakening your core and making your body reliant on an external crutch. “I would only pop it on for a few minutes here and there as a reminder,” Smith recommends.

Some posture-correcting bras and wearable devices are gentler, making them better suited for longer periods, but these are often the exception. To be safe, refer to the specific product’s instructions. I’ve found them helpful in short bursts-like when I’m at my desk or cooking dinner. As Smith puts it: “We’re just trying to remind ourselves to come back and fight against gravity.”

What are we testing next?

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