Steve,

I injured mine repeatedly over a 20+ year period doing pipeline work. I think Don summed it up the best. I think I beat the odds for many years by religiously doing the right exercises as specified by my doctor. You don’t want to let a brace become a crutch. It will do more harm than good however, a weight lifters belt is a good thing to have if you often lift heavy things. I used one for years to prevent injury but I only wore it while lifting. I would take it off after use. Even doing stuff like stacking firewood you need some protection. Some of my worst back problems came from reaching too far to get a light object. So don’t reach for anything beyond arms length. Go around and get it!
Anyhow, hope you get better soon, Steve.

Duncan