Anyone use an off the shelf back brace-

I threw my back out this weekend. Badly. But I've got too much stuff to get done, including framing out several rooms in my basement. I'm thinking I'm going to need a back brace if I am to survive the week, though. Anyone use an off the shelf brace? (like from the sporting goods store, pharmacy, home depot, whatever?). My wife, who I should probably just consider an expert on this after three spinal surgery, has said that a custom fitted brace, essentially prescribed by a doctor, is the only way to go. Apparently she complains the off the shelf ones ride up, slip around and generally don't stay where/how they're supposed to be. I'm not sure I want to spend the time and money seeing a specialist and getting a brace fitted when I'm hoping this is a short term injury. Anyone have any positive experiences using a brace?