I was fortunate in that I had lumbar back surgery with 6 pins and screws in my lower spine. The two vertebrae immediately above this rehabbed area are both hanging over but fortunately are remaining in their new positions. Surgery is not intended at this time, but I work on Core Buildup. I have the back brace from that surgery which is different and I use, time to time for added relief. I have more control with that brace in the amount of adjustment. I am excited about this X-Brace all the same, and I use it and intend to use it on a regular basis. I feel I should be able to get more tightness than I seem to be able to do, but maybe that is intended. There is a central spine “bone” in a pocket which is removable but I find that having this fronting my own re-built lower spine seems to be a positive. My other apparatus has “similar” but on either side of my own spine…in positioning. Each’s use is similar, and different I suspect. The bottom line, a very good purchase for me.