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(Created page with "<div> <div class="title"><h1>9.13 - Low cost flour mills</h1><br><h3>Gryphon Therault-Loubier, University of Guelph, Canada</h3></div> <div class="ch-navber" style="display: flex; justify-content: space-between;"> <div class="center-side" style="max-width: 70%;margin-right: 3%;"> <div style="margin-top: 30px;"> <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Introduction:</h3>...")
 
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  <div class="title"><h1>9.13 - Low cost flour mills</h1><br><h3>Gryphon Therault-Loubier, University of Guelph, Canada</h3></div>
  <div class="title"><h3>9.13 - Back Braces for Smallholder Farmers to Combat Pain and Improve Quality of Life</h3><br><h3 class="ch-owner">Lauren De Domenico ,University of Guelph, Canada </h3></div>
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<p>Suggested citation for this chapter.</p>
       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Introduction:</h3>
<p>Domenico De,L. (2022) Back Braces for Smallholder Farmers to Combat Pain and Improve Quality of Life, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Introduction to Back Braces & How They Can Prevent Pain</h3>
           <p>Traditionally, subsistence farmers have utilized a method known as broadcasting to sow seeds. Generally, broadcasting involves manually dispersing seeds throughout the field by throwing handfuls over the soil. In order for farmers to obtain a substantial yield with broadcasting, seeds must be sown at a relatively high density. Since the seeds were dispersed on the soil surface, some seeds could be lost to birds or field run-off during rainstorms (Johansen, Haque, Bell, Thierfelder, & Esdaile, 2012). Alternatively, line sowing involves sowing seeds in uniform rows either manually or with machinery (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2007). This sowing method allows for higher yields due to reduced plant competition for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Additionally, sowing seeds in rows allows for enhanced weed and pest management since farmers can more easily move through the field to removed weeds and monitor crops for pests or disease (Barberi, 2002).</p>
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           <p>Back braces (See Figures 1 and 2) can play a crucial role in alleviating back pain among farmers, particularly those who spend long hours driving tractors, sitting or bending. Back braces are generally categorized into three types: flexible, semi-rigid, and rigid, each serving different levels of back pain severity (Dang, 2018). A back brace that combines elements of flexible and rigid orthoses is commonly called a semi-rigid brace (Dang, 2018). These braces offer a unique blend of support and flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of conditions and pain levels (Dang, 2018). The semi-rigid design provides more support than a flexible brace, offering some degree of immobilization while still allowing for natural movement (Dang, 2018). This makes them ideal for conditions requiring moderate support and mobility (Dang, 2018), such as those faced by smallholder farmers who need to perform daily tasks that involve bending, lifting, and other physical activities essential for farming.</p>
<p>Many back braces, whether flexible or rigid, are usually worn the same way (Dang, 2018). They consist of two flexible or sturdy wings that wrap around the torso and connect over the abdomen (Dang, 2018). These wings may have additional elements for stability, like extra panels or vertical stays (Dang, 2018). Semi-rigid braces also include a stiff back panel, often made of hard plastic, to support the back's posture (Dang, 2018). A sturdy front panel, typically featuring Velcro closures, applies pressure to the abdomen (Dang, 2018). Furthermore, most braces allow for small adjustments using cords and pull tabs on the sides (Dang, 2018).</p>
<P>According to Rodriguez et al. (2002), back support can help decrease pain and prevent back strain, which are common issues faced by farmers. Chronic back pain is prevalent among farmers due to prolonged exhaustion from extended work hours, frequent trauma from machinery, decline in muscle strength due to apparatus motorization, and frequent bending (Schrock, 2016). Smallholder farmers are at a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries, partly because they often lack access to help, educational opportunities, and training to prevent unsafe environments and injuries (Behrens, 2014). Therefore, using back braces can provide much-needed support and help reduce the risk of back injuries, ultimately improving the overall well-being of farmers.</P>
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       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Physical Protection</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Benefits of Wearing a Back Brace</h3>
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          <p>Protection is the main benefit from using gloves. Repetitive motions, such as when pounding grain, can cause irritation to the skin. When collecting firewood the sticks and logs can scratch or cut the skin (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2016). Weeds can be rough and by scratching their hands many times they can become cut and sore (Espasandín-Arias & Goossens, 2014). By lifting and pulling heavy items the top layer of your skin will separate from the next, causing a blister, by wearing gloves they now will prevent blistering because the glove will act as the top layer of skin and prevent the actual skin from separating (Schaffner, 2013). Manure has a lot of bacteria in it which are harmful if they are swallow, so keeping them away from the hands used to eat with is very beneficial (Furlong, et al., 2015). If farmers are working with firewood or in construction the cloth gloves will work better because they are more durable (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2016). The disposable rubber gloves would be the worst to use in this scenario because they are so thin, stick to jobs were the main goals are to keep hands dry and dirt free when using disposable rubber gloves.</p>
<p>Wearing a back brace offers several benefits to farmers, including reducing lower-back pain and tension in muscles (Dang, 2018). By shifting weight in the spine, these braces can enhance posture, which is crucial for farmers who often spend long hours performing physically demanding tasks (Dang, 2018). Improved posture not only reduces the risk of injury but also enhances function during daily tasks, making farm work more manageable and efficient (Dang, 2018). This is particularly important given that farm-related injuries cause approximately 243 farmers to lose valuable work time every day in the United States alone (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2012). Moreover, the posture-enhancing advantages of back braces could be particularly valuable for small-scale female farmers. Women play a pivotal role in agriculture, often at the forefront, making up an average of 62 percent of the agricultural labour force (Odiwuor, 2022). They are primarily responsible for the production, processing, and marketing of agricultural produce (Odiwuor, 2022). Because they frequently spend long hours bending and reaching down while harvesting (Odiwuor, 2022), wearing back braces during these tasks could provide them with added comfort and relief. Back braces can also restrict painful movements, providing much-needed support to the back and helping prevent further strain or injury (Dang, 2018). Typically, back braces are lightweight, constructed with a sturdy layer of material such as cotton or canvas that wraps around the torso (Dang, 2018). This lightweight design is advantageous for farmers, as it allows them to continue their work on the farm without feeling burdened. Overall, wearing a back brace can significantly improve the comfort, safety, and productivity of farmers.</p>
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<p><i>Figure 1. Osteoplast Lumbo-Sacral Back Support Brace                                           
Indiamart → $9 USD                                                                                           
Model Name/Number: B-102</i></p>


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      <h3 style="background: #faecc8;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Defense Against Moisture and Chemicals</h3>
<p><i>Figure 2. Posture Corrector Belt for Women                                                                                           
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Alibaba → $2.49 – $6.61 USD </i></p>
          <p>Moisture blocking is a way gloves can prevent your skin from drying out and from getting too wet and dehydrating farmer's hands. By keeping the moisture from the hands inside the gloves they will prevent the skin from cracking and becoming infected (Schaffner, 2013). As well when working in wet conditions your hands can shrivel and become dehydrated if they are constantly in contact with water.</p>
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          <p>Pesticides can be absorbed by your skin and become harmful to the body, gloves provide an extra barrier to block them from entering in a farmer's body (Furlong, et al., 2015). Fertilizers such as nitrogen can also be caustic, and these are usually spread through broadcasting by hand. Mud can get under your nails and into cracked or cut skin and can infect a farmer's hands. Gloves will keep the mud out and keep hands clean. Both liquid pesticides and dry fertilizers can irritate skin if they come into contact with it (Kim, et al., 2013). Wearing the proper gloves, rubber ones in this case, can save their hands from becoming itchy (Keeble et al., 1996). Human skin can also absorb the pesticides which are harmful to your body, wearing gloves would prevent the pesticides from ever touching your skin.</p>
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       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Wearable</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">How Smallholder Farmers Can Gain Access to Back Braces </h3>
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          <p>Comfortable gloves help farmer's work longer because their hands will not hurt from completing your task. Sizing is very important when finding comfortable gloves (Melco, 2016). Make sure gloves are the proper length and width, as not to restrict movement. There will be less pain from pulling weeds and they will be able to pull more weeds because they would not have to wait a long for the pain to subside between pulling each weed, because there will be no pain if wearing gloves (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2016). If farmer's find they are working hard and their hands start to sweat the gloves should be removed , dry your hands, and put on a new pair. Cloth gloves are more breathable then rubber ones, using them is another way to prevent hands from getting sweaty. The cloth gloves can also be softer and easier to clean, but are more restricting to movement due to their durability and tougher material. Since children will also be farming, smaller glove sizes can be found. Gloves are designed to fit a farmer's hand snugly, so children should not wear adult sized gloves when working. </p>
<p>Smallholder farming organizations can gain access to information about back braces through various channels, including the Agriculture & Horticulture Safety Centre, which aims to provide them with tools and resources concerning health and safety (Workplace Safety & Prevention Services, n.d.). This center offers access to safety training and support for health issues through its website, making it a valuable resource for farmers in need of back brace information (n.d.). In addition to this, there are several low-cost back braces on the market in developing countries, for instance, India and China. Examples of such companies include IndiaMart and Alibaba, respectively, which sell back braces for as low as $2.49 USD, as pictured above. By utilizing these resources and options, smallholder farmers can easily obtain back braces to enhance their comfort and safety while working on the farm.</p>
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       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Constraints To Adoption</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Critical Analysis</h3>
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          <p>Gloves are very useful to farmers, but there can still be some drawbacks. Possible culturable taboos might vary from location to location. Gloves might seem feminine and not easily adopted by men in the community. Gloves act as a second, tougher skin, but they are not a farmer's skin and can slide around while working. This may feel odd and uncomfortable but farmers can get used to the new feeling over time. Gloves can come in many colours and thicknesses, which may make a farmer's hands look funny or larger. Human skin is very stretchy and flexible, while glove materials tend to be tougher than skin and will reduce movement, but not enough to hinder work. Rubber gloves can stretch well, but make hands sweat, while cloth gloves are breathable but reduce dexterity.</p>
<p>The use of back braces by farmers to manage back pain presents both benefits and challenges. Research suggests that back braces are more effective than relying solely on physical therapy and painkillers (Morrisette, 2014), highlighting their potential as a valuable tool for managing back pain. However, there is a need for more research to fully support this claim, indicating a potential gap in understanding the true efficacy of back braces in pain management. A significant hurdle for smallholder farmers is the accessibility of back braces and ensuring they obtain the correct size. This is crucial for the effectiveness of the brace in managing back pain (Schrock, 2016). Moreover, keeping the price of back braces low is essential, as cost can be a barrier for many smallholder farmers. This is especially true for female smallholder farmers in developing countries, considering that they often encounter significant challenges due to their country’s cultural norms (Duckett, n.d.). These obstacles not only hinder their ability to earn equal wages compared to male farmers but also restrict their access to borrowing money, which can subsequently limit their access to back braces (Duckett, n.d.). Typically, these farmers also have restricted access to health insurance or health-related benefits, which makes it difficult for them to receive proper health care, including obtaining a back brace for a back injury (Schrock, 2016). This limitation highlights the importance of ensuring that back braces are accessible and affordable for all farmers, regardless of their insurance status. Furthermore, small-scale farmers are often reluctant to seek medical attention due to the potential impact on their costs and output, as missing work can have detrimental effects on their livelihoods (Reed & Claunch, 2002). In addition to this, deeply ingrained gender roles in developing countries can hinder women from travelling outside of their villages without the permission of their husbands (Duckett, n.d.). Whether a farmer is either reluctant or unable to leave their farm to seek health care, this emphasizes another critical concern, as it can impede their ability to address back pain and other health issues in a timely manner. While back braces are indeed lightweight, they may not be suitable for individuals who frequently work in extremely hot weather conditions. This highlights a potential challenge for small-scale farmers, especially those in regions like Africa or India, who might consider wearing back braces to enhance their quality of life. Despite these challenges, one advantage of using back braces is that they can be obtained without a prescription (Dang, 2018), making them more accessible to smallholder farmers compared to prescription medication. This ease of access could encourage more farmers to use back braces to manage their back pain. Additionally, back braces can be concealed by wearing them under clothing, which helps reduce any potential embarrassment or drawing attention to themselves. Overall, while back braces offer potential benefits for farmers, addressing the challenges of access and affordability is crucial to ensure that all farmers can benefit from this form of pain management.</p>
          <p>Farmers can find gloves to use and get started from local vendors (European Commission For The Control Of Foot-And-Mouth Disease, 2016). Once you have completed your work for the day you can clean them are reuse them, or dispose of them if they were ripped or torn (Kim, et al., 2013). You can get gloves made of rubber and like materials as well as ones made of durable cloths. The thin rubber gloves tend to be made for a single use only. A trick that the European Commission For The Control Foot-And-Mouth Disease mentions that you can wear two pairs of rubber gloves at the same time for extra protection (European Commission For The Control Of Foot-And-Mouth Disease, 2016).</p>
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       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">Helpful Links To Get Started </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Helpful Resources to Get Started</h3>
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          <p>Here are websites to find more information about how to obtain gloves:</p>
<p> Informative videos on how to wear a back brace</p>
          <p>[https://www.alibaba.com/ Alibaba]</p>
<p>How To Wear A Back Brace (Properly)</p>
          <p>[https://www.indiamart.com/ Indiamart]</p>
<p>How to Put on This Back Brace for the Best Fit | Women's Lumbar Support for Lower Back Pain</p>
          <p>[http://www.store.nzfarmsource.co.nz/ Store Nzfarmsource]</p>
<p> Link to the Agriculture Safety Centre</p>
          <p>[https://www.adenna.com Adenna]</p>
<p>https://www.wsps.ca/how-we-help/agriculture-safety-centre</p>
          <p>[https://www.farmcity.co.za/ Farmcity]</p>
<p> Links to back braces shown in Figures 1 and 2 </p>
          <p>[https://www.crazystore.co.za/ Crazystore]</p>
<p>https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Posture-Corrector-New-Model-Corrector-De_1600190401509.html?spm=a2700.galleryofferlist.p_offer.d_title.7d9d462brycfeo&s=p
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https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/back-support-brace-21760959548.html?pos=2&kwd=back%20brace&tags=A||||8042.3813|Price|product|||IVESI|type=attr=1|attrS</p>
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       <h3 style="background: #d0e5f5;padding: 15px;font-weight: 600;color: #000;font-size: 22px;margin:unset;text-align:center;">References</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">References</h3>
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          <p>Espasandín-Arias, M., & Goossens, A. (2014). Natural rubber gloves might not protect against skin penetration of methylisothiazolinone. Contact Dermatitis, 70(4), 249-251. doi:10.1111/cod.12221</p>
<p>1. Behrens, K. A. (2014). Small farmers' awareness of body mechanics and assistive technology. Ithaca College Theses. Paper 6. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/217288241.pdf</p>
          <p>European Commission For The Control Of Foot-And-Mouth Disease. Suggested FMD PPE guidelines - Food and Agriculture, (2016)  
<p>2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012, July 13). Agricultural Safety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/aginjury/</p>  
          Food and Agriculture Organization. Rural women in household production: Increasing contributions and persisting drudgery. (2016).
<p>3. Dang, S. (2018, July 3). Types of back braces used for lower back pain relief. Spine. https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/alternative-care/types-back-braces-used-lower-back-pain-relief</p>
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<p>4. Dang, S. (2018, July 3). Using a back brace for lower back pain relief. Spine-health. https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/alternative-care/using-back-brace-lower-back-pain-relief</p>  
          <p>Furlong, M., Tanner, C. M., Goldman, S. M., Bhudhikanok, G. S., Blair, A., Chade, A., . . . Kamel, F. (2015). Protective glove use and hygiene habits modify the associations of specific pesticides with Parkinson's disease. Environment International, 75, 144-150. doi:10.1016/j.envint.2014.11.002</p>
<p>5. Duckett, M. K. (n.d.). Empowering female farmers to feed the world. National Geographic Society. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/partner-content-empowering-female-farmers</p>  
          <p>Keeble, V. B., Correll, L., & Ehrich, M. (1996). Effect of Laundering on Ability of Glove Fabrics to Decrease the Penetration of Organophosphate Insecticides Through in vitro Epidermal Systems. J. Appl. Toxicol. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 16(5), 401-406. doi:10.1002/(sici)1099-1263(199609)16:53.3.co;2-6</p>
<p>6. Morrisette, D. C., Cholewicki, J., Logan, S., Seif, G., & McGowan, S. (2014). A randomized clinical trial comparing extensible and inextensible lumbosacral orthoses and standard care alone in the management of lower back pain. Spine, 39(21), 1733–1742. https://doi.org/10.1097/brs.0000000000000521 </p>
          <p>Kim, J., Kim, J., Cha, E., Ko, Y., Kim, D., & Lee, W. (2013). Work-Related Risk Factors by Severity for Acute Pesticide Poisoning Among Male Farmers in South Korea. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 10(3), 1100-1112. doi:10.3390/ijerph10031100</p>
<p>7. Odiwuor, F. (2022, September 7). Women Smallholder Farmers: What is the missing link for the food system in Africa? Wilson Center. https://www.wilsoncenter.org/blog-post/women-smallholder-farmers</p>
          <p>Melco, M. (2016). Gardening Gloves. Retrieved from [http://garden.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Gardening_Gloves Garden Lovetoknow]</p>
<p>8. Reed, D. B., & Claunch, D. T. (2002). Behind the scenes: Spousal coping following permanently disabling injury of farmers. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 23(3), 231–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/016128402753542983 </p>
          <p>Schaffner, A. D. (2013). Minimizing Surgical Skin Incision Scars with a Latex Surgical Glove. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 37(2), 463-463. doi:10.1007/s00266-013-0071-y</p>
<p>9. Rodriguez, J., Domingo, V. I., & Stiles, M. (2002). Back Safety (Newspaper Article). National Ag Safety Database, USA. http://nasdonline.org/document/1345/d001137/back-safety-newpaper-article.html </p>
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<p>10. Schrock, R. D. (2016). The Farmer’s Back. Postgraduate Medicine, 4(2), 132–139. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1948.11693675 </p>
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<p>11. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. (n.d.). Agriculture Health and Safety Centre, Canada. https://www.wsps.ca/how-we-help/agriculture-safety-centre </p>
 
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          <p>Performance for dense matrix multiplication</p>
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          <p>[http://www.msu.ru/en/ Description of algorithm properties and structure]</p>
          <p style="color:#ba0000 !important;">[http://parallel.ru/index_eng.html Guides to writing sections of the algorithm’s description]</p>
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Latest revision as of 13:58, 8 May 2024

9.13 - Back Braces for Smallholder Farmers to Combat Pain and Improve Quality of Life


Lauren De Domenico ,University of Guelph, Canada

4.jpg

Suggested citation for this chapter.

Domenico De,L. (2022) Back Braces for Smallholder Farmers to Combat Pain and Improve Quality of Life, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org

Introduction to Back Braces & How They Can Prevent Pain

Back braces (See Figures 1 and 2) can play a crucial role in alleviating back pain among farmers, particularly those who spend long hours driving tractors, sitting or bending. Back braces are generally categorized into three types: flexible, semi-rigid, and rigid, each serving different levels of back pain severity (Dang, 2018). A back brace that combines elements of flexible and rigid orthoses is commonly called a semi-rigid brace (Dang, 2018). These braces offer a unique blend of support and flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of conditions and pain levels (Dang, 2018). The semi-rigid design provides more support than a flexible brace, offering some degree of immobilization while still allowing for natural movement (Dang, 2018). This makes them ideal for conditions requiring moderate support and mobility (Dang, 2018), such as those faced by smallholder farmers who need to perform daily tasks that involve bending, lifting, and other physical activities essential for farming.

Many back braces, whether flexible or rigid, are usually worn the same way (Dang, 2018). They consist of two flexible or sturdy wings that wrap around the torso and connect over the abdomen (Dang, 2018). These wings may have additional elements for stability, like extra panels or vertical stays (Dang, 2018). Semi-rigid braces also include a stiff back panel, often made of hard plastic, to support the back's posture (Dang, 2018). A sturdy front panel, typically featuring Velcro closures, applies pressure to the abdomen (Dang, 2018). Furthermore, most braces allow for small adjustments using cords and pull tabs on the sides (Dang, 2018).

According to Rodriguez et al. (2002), back support can help decrease pain and prevent back strain, which are common issues faced by farmers. Chronic back pain is prevalent among farmers due to prolonged exhaustion from extended work hours, frequent trauma from machinery, decline in muscle strength due to apparatus motorization, and frequent bending (Schrock, 2016). Smallholder farmers are at a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries, partly because they often lack access to help, educational opportunities, and training to prevent unsafe environments and injuries (Behrens, 2014). Therefore, using back braces can provide much-needed support and help reduce the risk of back injuries, ultimately improving the overall well-being of farmers.

Benefits of Wearing a Back Brace

Wearing a back brace offers several benefits to farmers, including reducing lower-back pain and tension in muscles (Dang, 2018). By shifting weight in the spine, these braces can enhance posture, which is crucial for farmers who often spend long hours performing physically demanding tasks (Dang, 2018). Improved posture not only reduces the risk of injury but also enhances function during daily tasks, making farm work more manageable and efficient (Dang, 2018). This is particularly important given that farm-related injuries cause approximately 243 farmers to lose valuable work time every day in the United States alone (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2012). Moreover, the posture-enhancing advantages of back braces could be particularly valuable for small-scale female farmers. Women play a pivotal role in agriculture, often at the forefront, making up an average of 62 percent of the agricultural labour force (Odiwuor, 2022). They are primarily responsible for the production, processing, and marketing of agricultural produce (Odiwuor, 2022). Because they frequently spend long hours bending and reaching down while harvesting (Odiwuor, 2022), wearing back braces during these tasks could provide them with added comfort and relief. Back braces can also restrict painful movements, providing much-needed support to the back and helping prevent further strain or injury (Dang, 2018). Typically, back braces are lightweight, constructed with a sturdy layer of material such as cotton or canvas that wraps around the torso (Dang, 2018). This lightweight design is advantageous for farmers, as it allows them to continue their work on the farm without feeling burdened. Overall, wearing a back brace can significantly improve the comfort, safety, and productivity of farmers.

User 24.jpg

Figure 1. Osteoplast Lumbo-Sacral Back Support Brace Indiamart → $9 USD Model Name/Number: B-102

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Figure 2. Posture Corrector Belt for Women Alibaba → $2.49 – $6.61 USD

How Smallholder Farmers Can Gain Access to Back Braces

Smallholder farming organizations can gain access to information about back braces through various channels, including the Agriculture & Horticulture Safety Centre, which aims to provide them with tools and resources concerning health and safety (Workplace Safety & Prevention Services, n.d.). This center offers access to safety training and support for health issues through its website, making it a valuable resource for farmers in need of back brace information (n.d.). In addition to this, there are several low-cost back braces on the market in developing countries, for instance, India and China. Examples of such companies include IndiaMart and Alibaba, respectively, which sell back braces for as low as $2.49 USD, as pictured above. By utilizing these resources and options, smallholder farmers can easily obtain back braces to enhance their comfort and safety while working on the farm.

Critical Analysis

The use of back braces by farmers to manage back pain presents both benefits and challenges. Research suggests that back braces are more effective than relying solely on physical therapy and painkillers (Morrisette, 2014), highlighting their potential as a valuable tool for managing back pain. However, there is a need for more research to fully support this claim, indicating a potential gap in understanding the true efficacy of back braces in pain management. A significant hurdle for smallholder farmers is the accessibility of back braces and ensuring they obtain the correct size. This is crucial for the effectiveness of the brace in managing back pain (Schrock, 2016). Moreover, keeping the price of back braces low is essential, as cost can be a barrier for many smallholder farmers. This is especially true for female smallholder farmers in developing countries, considering that they often encounter significant challenges due to their country’s cultural norms (Duckett, n.d.). These obstacles not only hinder their ability to earn equal wages compared to male farmers but also restrict their access to borrowing money, which can subsequently limit their access to back braces (Duckett, n.d.). Typically, these farmers also have restricted access to health insurance or health-related benefits, which makes it difficult for them to receive proper health care, including obtaining a back brace for a back injury (Schrock, 2016). This limitation highlights the importance of ensuring that back braces are accessible and affordable for all farmers, regardless of their insurance status. Furthermore, small-scale farmers are often reluctant to seek medical attention due to the potential impact on their costs and output, as missing work can have detrimental effects on their livelihoods (Reed & Claunch, 2002). In addition to this, deeply ingrained gender roles in developing countries can hinder women from travelling outside of their villages without the permission of their husbands (Duckett, n.d.). Whether a farmer is either reluctant or unable to leave their farm to seek health care, this emphasizes another critical concern, as it can impede their ability to address back pain and other health issues in a timely manner. While back braces are indeed lightweight, they may not be suitable for individuals who frequently work in extremely hot weather conditions. This highlights a potential challenge for small-scale farmers, especially those in regions like Africa or India, who might consider wearing back braces to enhance their quality of life. Despite these challenges, one advantage of using back braces is that they can be obtained without a prescription (Dang, 2018), making them more accessible to smallholder farmers compared to prescription medication. This ease of access could encourage more farmers to use back braces to manage their back pain. Additionally, back braces can be concealed by wearing them under clothing, which helps reduce any potential embarrassment or drawing attention to themselves. Overall, while back braces offer potential benefits for farmers, addressing the challenges of access and affordability is crucial to ensure that all farmers can benefit from this form of pain management.

Helpful Resources to Get Started

Informative videos on how to wear a back brace

How To Wear A Back Brace (Properly)

How to Put on This Back Brace for the Best Fit | Women's Lumbar Support for Lower Back Pain

Link to the Agriculture Safety Centre

https://www.wsps.ca/how-we-help/agriculture-safety-centre

Links to back braces shown in Figures 1 and 2

https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Posture-Corrector-New-Model-Corrector-De_1600190401509.html?spm=a2700.galleryofferlist.p_offer.d_title.7d9d462brycfeo&s=p https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/back-support-brace-21760959548.html?pos=2&kwd=back%20brace&tags=A%7C%7C%7C%7C8042.3813%7CPrice%7Cproduct%7C%7C%7CIVESI%7Ctype=attr=1%7CattrS

References

1. Behrens, K. A. (2014). Small farmers' awareness of body mechanics and assistive technology. Ithaca College Theses. Paper 6. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/217288241.pdf

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012, July 13). Agricultural Safety. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/aginjury/

3. Dang, S. (2018, July 3). Types of back braces used for lower back pain relief. Spine. https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/alternative-care/types-back-braces-used-lower-back-pain-relief

4. Dang, S. (2018, July 3). Using a back brace for lower back pain relief. Spine-health. https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/alternative-care/using-back-brace-lower-back-pain-relief

5. Duckett, M. K. (n.d.). Empowering female farmers to feed the world. National Geographic Society. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/partner-content-empowering-female-farmers

6. Morrisette, D. C., Cholewicki, J., Logan, S., Seif, G., & McGowan, S. (2014). A randomized clinical trial comparing extensible and inextensible lumbosacral orthoses and standard care alone in the management of lower back pain. Spine, 39(21), 1733–1742. https://doi.org/10.1097/brs.0000000000000521

7. Odiwuor, F. (2022, September 7). Women Smallholder Farmers: What is the missing link for the food system in Africa? Wilson Center. https://www.wilsoncenter.org/blog-post/women-smallholder-farmers

8. Reed, D. B., & Claunch, D. T. (2002). Behind the scenes: Spousal coping following permanently disabling injury of farmers. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 23(3), 231–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/016128402753542983

9. Rodriguez, J., Domingo, V. I., & Stiles, M. (2002). Back Safety (Newspaper Article). National Ag Safety Database, USA. http://nasdonline.org/document/1345/d001137/back-safety-newpaper-article.html

10. Schrock, R. D. (2016). The Farmer’s Back. Postgraduate Medicine, 4(2), 132–139. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1948.11693675

11. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. (n.d.). Agriculture Health and Safety Centre, Canada. https://www.wsps.ca/how-we-help/agriculture-safety-centre

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