Shoulder pain can be excruciating. Fortunately, shoulder support braces can help to alleviate shoulder pain and promote faster recovery after shoulder injuries. But with numerous shoulder braces available, how do you know which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll explore key things you need to know when choosing a shoulder brace to help you pick the best shoulder support brace for your needs.
Do Shoulder Support Braces Work?
Shoulder support braces are designed to immobilize the arm. As a result, they keep the shoulder steady, alleviating pain and promoting faster healing after shoulder injuries. Some shoulder braces also offer compression, making them ideal for athletes who want to continue performing after shoulder injuries.
What Should One Look for in a Shoulder Brace?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all shoulder support brace. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing a shoulder brace:
Purpose
Different shoulder support braces serve different purposes. While some braces are designed to immobilize the shoulder after an injury, others are designed to offer support after shoulder surgery. When choosing a brace, consider the primary reason you need the shoulder brace.
Size and Fit
Shoulder support braces come in various sizes. An effective shoulder brace shouldn’t be too tight or loose. Instead, it should fit firmly and feel comfortable.
Before choosing a shoulder brace, measure the broadest part of your chest just below your armpit while standing upright. Afterward, check the sizing chart provided by the shoulder brace manufacturer to determine the right size for you.
However, while sizing charts are often accurate, try on the shoulder brace before buying it to ensure you get the perfect fit.
Adjustability
Besides size and fit, adjustability can significantly influence how comfortable a shoulder brace feels. Ideally, choose an adjustable shoulder brace that you can customize for maximum comfort.
Support Level
While some shoulder braces immobilize the shoulder, others allow some shoulder movement. Consider the level of support you need. If you have a severe shoulder injury, you may want a shoulder brace that limits shoulder movement to avoid aggravating the injury. On the other hand, if you get a mild shoulder injury and want to continue playing sports, you may prefer a shoulder support brace that allows shoulder movement
Material
Shoulder support braces are made from various materials, such as neoprene, Lycra, nylon, and Velcro. Ideally, choose a lightweight, breathable, and moisture-resistant material to keep you comfortable while you’re wearing it. You may also want to consider the strength of the materials you’re considering, as some materials last longer than others.
Ease of Use
Some shoulder braces are pretty challenging to wear. Look for a shoulder support brace that’s easy to put on — especially if you’ll need to put it on yourself.
What’s the Best Shoulder Support Brace?
Now that you know what to consider when choosing a shoulder brace, here are some of the best shoulder braces available on the market.
Babo Care Shoulder Stability Brace
Babo Care’s Shoulder Stability Brace is made from breathable, flexible, and moisture-resistant neoprene for maximum comfort. It also has a unique pressure pad that you can use to hold an ice pack to your shoulder for extra relief. Moreover, it’s easy to wear and features multiple adjustment points for a snug fit.
However, the brace is designed to fit people with a chest size between 33 to 45 inches, so it may be too big for some people.
Pros
- Made from neoprene that’s lightweight, breathable, moisture-resistant, and durable
- Ideal for various issues, such as shoulder pain, tendonitis, arthritis, and other joint injuries
Cons
- The large brace size may be unsuitable for some people
- It isn’t machine-washable
Pressure Pad for Ice/Heat Available. To relieve shoulder pain, tendinitior or joint related problems, you can use physiotherapy, ice and heat.
Fightech Shoulder Brace
If you want to play sports after an injury, you’ll love the Figtech Shoulder Brace. The brace is specially designed to support the shoulder while allowing movement, making it excellent for athletes. However, it can also immobilize the shoulder if necessary. An incredibly versatile brace, you can use the Figtech Shoulder Brace as a shoulder dislocation, joint, or rotator cuff injury brace.
Available in various sizes and colors, the unisex shoulder brace is suitable for various body types and shapes. However, you may find it a bit challenging to wear without assistance.
Pros
- Made of breathable neoprene
- Available in a variety of sizes and colors
- Features a pocket for an ice or heat pack for extra relief
Machine washable
Cons
- May require assistance to wear
Adjustable Shoulder Compression Sleeve provides relief from your frozen shoulder, rotator cuff tear, bursitis, labrum tear, tendonitis, stiff joints, broken humerus bone, post-op SLAP surgery. Can be used as a separated shoulder brace, shoulder dislocation brace, or rotator cuff brace.
Sparthos Shoulder Brace
Designed to wear easily, the Sparthos Shoulder Brace has hook and loop straps that allow you to put it on without assistance. It’s also specially designed to provide support while allowing for shoulder movement, making it ideal for athletes recovering from shoulder injuries. For maximum comfort, the Sparthos Shoulder is made from breathable and flexible neoprene.
Pros
- Easy to wear
- Features ice pack pocket for extra relief
- Made from neoprene that’s breathable, flexible, and durable
Cons
- Buckle can feel uncomfortable
Sparthos Shoulder Brace has been carefully engineered to stabilize and support your shoulder. Support and Compression Sleeve for Torn Rotator Cuff, AC Joint Pain Relief – Arm Immobilizer Wrap, Ice Pack Pocket, Stability Strap, Dislocated Sholder – for Men and Women
