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The Upright Go device is a product that a person can place on their upper back using a hypoallergenic adhesive. The company Upright created this wearable device to detect posture issues and alert a person to adjust their position when necessary. Further medical research is necessary to establish whether wearable postural devices offer positive, long-term effects.
The American Chiropractic Association says good posture can:
- help keep the bones and joints aligned
- reduce stress on the ligaments
- allow muscles to work correctly
- prevent muscle strain and pain
This article looks at how the Upright Go device works and how it may help improve a person’s posture.
Upright comes with a medical-grade, silicone adhesive patch that a person uses to attach the Upright Go to their upper back. The adhesives are hypoallergenic and reusable. Once in place, the device uses biofeedback to track an individual’s posture. If they slouch, the device will gently vibrate, prompting them to stand or sit in a more straight position.
If a person prefers not to attach the device directly to their skin, they can use the Upright Go necklace that holds the device in the correct position. The necklace comes in a choice of six colors, and the company sells them separately for around $20.
The device syncs with a compatible smartphone app that records statistics and posture progress.
There are two different Upright Go devices: the Go S, and the Go 2. Although both products are similar, the Go 2 has more features and is slightly more expensive.
They both draw power from a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery that takes approximately 3 hours to charge fully.
Both models are compatible with the same smartphone app.
Below is a table showing the differences between the two devices.
Adhesives
The hypoallergenic adhesives the device comes with are reusable and can last for up to 10 applications with correct use.
However, although the company state the adhesives are hypoallergenic, it is not clear if the brand has carried out studies regarding any skin side effects due to using the product. Therefore, a person should exercise caution and consider an appropriate allergy patch test before using the adhesives.
An adhesive removal tool that resembles a guitar pick is included with the device to aid sticker removal. It also comes with alcohol cleaning wipes.
Both models work with the Upright smartphone app, which is free to download and compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
The app offers real-time posture feedback, with an on-screen avatar mimicking the movement and body position of the wearer. The avatar turns red when a person wearing the device slouches or hunches.
Additionally, an individual can set personalized daily goals, view posture statistics, and keep track of progress. In-app support and live chats are also available.
Shipping within the United States is free, and U.S. customers will receive their order within 5–8 business days.
While Upright ships worldwide, international customers are responsible for paying any applicable customs charges.
Returns
Upright offers a 30-day money-back guarantee that starts from the date of receipt of the product.
However, to receive a refund, a person must show they followed their in-app training plan and reached their daily goal for at least 4 days.
Warranty
The company provides a 1-year limited consumer warranty, which covers manufacturer and material defects.
Upright claims that over 500 clinics worldwide recommend these devices, which have clinical validation from four published studies indicating their effectiveness.
The company uses biofeedback technology within its Upright products. A 2021 study asked participants to complete a computer task twice — once as normal, then a second time wearing a posture biofeedback device. The authors of the study concluded that individuals experienced improved posture when using the device.
However, a
Research suggests this type of device may benefit the following groups:
- Office workers: The above 2021 study suggests this type of device may benefit office workers or those who spend long periods at a computer.
- People with neck pain: A 2019 study suggests that improved posture may benefit those with neck pain in the short term. However, further research to determine its long-term effects is necessary.
- Individuals with lower back pain: Research from 2018 found that a wearable biofeedback device may reduce lower back pain and discomfort.
- Those with Parkinson’s disease: A 2019 study suggests the Upright Go offers postural benefits, particularly regarding neck flexibility, in people with Parkinson’s disease. However, wider research is necessary to help establish the ability of those with this condition to use the device. It also stated that long-term effects need monitoring in individuals with Parkinson’s disease who use the machines.
Additionally, a 2020 study suggests these wearable devices may improve fatigue, confidence, and overall stress ratings.
The Upright Go appears to be one of the only wearable posture devices readily available to purchase. However, several others are now no longer available.
PostureMinder
This is an app that a person can install on their computer. It provides pop-up notifications to remind individuals to sit up straight and take breaks from their screens.
A person can set the time interval when they would like these notifications to appear. In addition, an individual can also turn them on or off easily.
Posture correctors
A person may also look into purchasing a posture corrector, aid, or brace. These are products a person wears around their arms and back that pull back the shoulders, encouraging them to stand and sit up straight.
However, to avoid dependence on this kind of brace, an individual should consider only wearing them for a short time. People should also speak with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional if they have concerns about their posture or alignment.
The Upright Go device is a wearable product that a person attaches to their back using adhesives. They can also wear it with a bespoke necklace that holds it in place.
The device provides gentle vibrations when an individual slouches as a reminder to correct their posture. The compatible mobile app allows people to view their posture in real-time and monitor their progress over time.
Research suggests this device may improve posture and reduce any associated pain from slouching. However, finding the long-term effects and medical implications of these devices require further and broader research.
