Do Shoulder Braces Work?

Do shoulder braces work? This is a genuine concern for people who suffer from shoulder conditions like shoulder pain and stiffness. During both everyday activities and sports activities, not to mention people who are recovering from shoulder surgery, the discomfort can be throbbing or persistent. 

In addition to medications, wearing a good shoulder brace is claimed to be a feasible way to soothe the pain. Again, do shoulder braces work? Let's figure more out on this page! 

Common Reasons That Cause Shoulder Pain

Before we address the question, 'Do shoulder braces work?', we need to first clarify the causes of our shoulder pain. Some common reasons are as follows:

1. Rotator Cuff Injury

A well-functioning rotator cuff enables multi-directional movements such as lifting and rotating. Muscles and tendons there work together to support the stability of the shoulder joint. 

Injuries can result from overuse, sprain, or a single incident that exerts a significant impact. They may lead to undesirable shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears or inflammation, causing discomfort, pain, and sometimes muscle weakness. 

For such a condition, there are shoulder braces for torn rotator cuff. They are designed to offer compression and support needed for pain relief. 

2. Frozen Shoulder

Also called adhesive capsulitis, it causes pain and limits shoulder movement. It worsens gradually but usually resolves within one to three years. The exact cause isn't known. 

However, it often happens after an injury or surgery when the shoulder remains still. It is also more likely to develop in individuals with diabetes. Patients may use shoulder braces and supports as prescribed by their doctor to relieve pain. 

3. Shoulder Arthritis

Among the multiple types of arthritis in the shoulder joint, osteoarthritis primarily affects the cartilage. Its function is to provide a cushion between the bones. 

This degeneration causes inflammation, leading to stinging pain and limited movement in the concerned area. Rheumatoid arthritis also affects the shoulder by inflaming the joint's membrane lining, causing pain and stiffness!

4. Shoulder Dislocation

This condition often occurs due to force or trauma like a fall or a strong impact. The impact is so severe that the upper arm bone slips out of the shoulder blade's socket. 

It can result in severe pain, swelling, and immobility of the affected joint. In such cases, it is generally recommended to wear a shoulder brace for dislocated shoulder to aid in better recovery.

5. Shoulder Fracture

Shoulder fractures typically occur in the clavicle or the proximal humerus, but they can also affect the scapula. They often result from falls, sports injuries, or even accidents. You may feel severe pain or see swelling and bruising. They can limit shoulder movement and cause burdens in various activities.

6. Muscle Strain or Tear

Shoulder injuries can also caused by straining or tearing the shoulder muscles. Reasons can be varied, including overwork, sudden jerks, or lifting heavy objects. Affected muscles may include the deltoid, pectoralis, or rotator cuff. You may feel localized pain, inflammation, and reduced shoulder strength and flexibility. 

Grasping the common causes of shoulder pain is key to identifying effective treatment options, including the potential use of shoulder braces for support and pain relief.

Do Shoulder Braces Work? 

So, how do shoulder braces work, and what are the benefits of wearing shoulder braces? Check them all in this section!

Working Mechanism:

Shoulder braces can be effective as they help in the following ways: 

• Providing Additional Support and Stability

With features like adjustable slide straps or secure Velcro fastenings, shoulder braces offer extra support and stability to the shoulder joint. They help reduce strain on muscles and tendons and hold the shoulder in place. 

• Improving Posture

By encouraging proper alignment, shoulder braces can help improve posture, which can reduce the likelihood of shoulder pain caused by poor posture.

• Limiting Range of Motion

Shoulder braces also work in restricting the range of motion. It prevents movements that could exacerbate existing injuries or cause new ones.

Potential Benefits of Wearing Shoulder Braces:

• Pain Relief

By providing support and reducing strain, shoulder braces can help alleviate pain associated with shoulder injuries or conditions. Additionally, some shoulder braces can offer compression that may soothe the pain. 

• Promoting Recovery

The stabilization and support offered by shoulder braces facilitate the healing process, allowing injuries to heal more efficiently.

• Preventing Further Injury

Shoulder braces also help prevent the recurrence of shoulder injuries as they limit movements of the affected shoulder. Wearing a shoulder brace can keep you aware that you should avoid any careless moves. 

How To Choose The Best Shoulder Braces

To make sure the shoulder brace works, the first step is to ensure you have chosen the best shoulder brace tailored to your condition. The following tips can give insights on how to choose the best shoulder brace: 

1. Personal Requirements (Daily, Sporting, Medicinal)

• Daily Use: If you plan to wear the shoulder brace for general everyday activities, ensure it is comfortable for extended wear.
• Sports Use: For sports activities, look for a back brace and support that provides adequate support while allowing flexibility to avoid hindering movement.
• Medical Use: Patients requiring a shoulder brace for medical conditions, such as post-surgery recovery or chronic pain, may benefit from a more rigid brace for optimal support and stability.

2. Support and Protection

Consider the level of support you need. Some shoulder braces are designed for minor injuries or general use, offering flexibility, while others provide rigid support suitable for severe issues or post-surgery recovery. Ensure the brace effectively protects the affected area to prevent re-injury.

3. Material and Quality

Check the shoulder brace is made of appropriate materials featuring durability and breathability. High-quality materials will help support the structure for an extended period. Seek out soft fabrics against your skin and provide adequate ventilation, thereby preventing the accumulation of sweat and subsequent chafing.

4. Comfort and Design

Comfort is paramount as one might be required to wear the brace for a long duration. Look for shoulder braces with adjustable straps to ensure a proper fit and allow for mild adjustments without discomfort. Some shoulder supports are made to be worn below the outfit, enhancing comfort for everyday use. 

5. Medical Advice

It is highly recommended that you consult your healthcare provider for the appropriate shoulder brace. Depending on the type of illness or specific condition, they can give the best advice. Additionally, a doctor or physical therapist can assess whether one benefits from wearing the brace correctly.

How To Use Shoulder Braces Properly

The final step to let shoulder braces work effectively is knowing how to use shoulder braces properly. 

Proper Wear

Observe the following guidelines while using the shoulder brace: Wear it according to the instructions and tighten or loosen the straps or closures for the best fit. 

It should also be comfortable enough to not compromise circulation or cause discomfort. Place it appropriately so that it correctly covers and supports the injured shoulder. 

Moderate Use

It is important not to overuse the shoulder brace. Although it offers support, its continual use may weaken the muscles and result in shoulder brace reliance. It is best to adhere to the wearing schedule the healthcare professional provides. 

Generally, one wears shoulder supports when the shoulder is under pressure or at the risk of aggravating the injury, such as during sports or weightlifting.

Hygiene

This is because skin irritation may happen if the brace gets dirty and comes into contact with the skin. Clean the shoulder brace according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer and as frequently as recommended. 

If the brace becomes soaked with sweat or moisture during use, it should be allowed to dry before being used again. Avoid wearing a brace over exposed wounds or injuries. 

Combine with Other Treatments

Shoulder braces are typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They can be used alone but may yield better results when combined with physical therapy, exercises, or other treatment methods.

Consult Professionals

Since everyone's shoulder condition may vary, you may turn to a doctor or specialist for professional medical advice before using a shoulder brace. They can examine you and identify the best shoulder brace you need. 

They may also give guidance on specific exercises or changes that can help with brace usage and healing. It is also essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to track progress and make further necessary changes.

Get Your Best Shoulder Brace from Fivali! 

Do shoulder braces work? You may learn that it requires consideration from multiple perspectives to ultimately determine the answer. If you are in need of high-quality shoulder braces, Fivali provides a diverse selection of shoulder braces tailored to different requirements. They offer reliable support and flexibility during sports activities and for medical use. 

We utilize light and breathable materials to ensure comfortable, frequent wear. If you are looking for shoulder braces for torn rotator cuff or shoulder braces for dislocation, Fivali can be your ideal destination to explore for more!