ASK MED Guide
How to measure for a lumbar belt
One measurement, taken the right way, is all a back belt or corset needs. Here is where and how.
Where the tape goes
Lumbar belts and corsets are sized by the waist, not by hips or trouser size. Stand relaxed, breathe out normally, and pass a soft tape around your waist level with your navel. Keep the tape parallel to the floor all the way round and read the number in centimetres.
Measure over light clothing, the way you will wear the belt. Do not pull the tape tight and do not hold your breath: the belt itself will provide the compression.
Read the manufacturer's chart
Each belt on this site shows its own size chart, for example S 72–81 cm, M 81–91 cm. Find the row that contains your measurement. If your number sits exactly on a boundary between two sizes, the larger size is usually the more comfortable choice for all-day wear, but tell us and we will check the specific model.
Height matters too
Belts come in different heights, from around 16 cm for a light support to 26 cm and more for a corset with stays. The height is shown on the product page. A taller belt covers more of the back and is more stabilising; a lower belt is easier to sit in and less visible under clothes.
Putting it on
Open the belt fully, place the centre panel on your lower back, and close the main fastening first while standing. Then tighten any side straps evenly on both sides. You should be able to breathe and sit normally. Loosen it if it rides up when you sit down.
These articles explain how supports are chosen, sized and cared for. They are not medical advice. If you are unsure whether a support is right for you, or you are recovering from an injury or an operation, follow the advice of your doctor or physiotherapist.