If you have suffered a shoulder injury, a brace may be needed to help immobilize the joint or provide stability during healing. Different types of shoulder braces may be used depending on the type of injury and whether or not surgery can been completed.
At Strasburger orthopaedics, each shoulder injury is evaluated individually, the patient’s history and future goals taken into account, and a plan laid out to optimize recovery. If non-surgical options can provide a great outcome, Dr. Strasburger will inform you and help you decide what brace is best – or if a brace is needed at all.
If surgery is needed, Dr. Strasburger will explain your options and potential outcomes. Traditional shoulder replacement could require complete immobilization of the shoulder for a week or more after surgery, necessitating a sturdy shoulder brace designed to minimize movement and provide cushion and support. Arthroscopic surgery is less invasive and may allow a lighter brace to be worn immediately or after a short time has passed.
A common shoulder brace used to provide light support and compression may be not much more than a stretchy sleeve made of neoprene. These braces usually fit from the top of the shoulder nearest the neck down the arm to just below the bicep, then stretch across the chest and under the opposite arm. This kind of brace may be used for those recovering from an injury without surgical intervention, or after arthroscopic surgery.
A brace that provides more support and immobility may include a armor like shell and / or a sling to keep the rest of the arm folded up in front of the chest and immobilized. This kind of brace is more popular with those who have had extensive arthroscopy or a full shoulder replacement.
Aryse shoulder brace systems employ a wedge to hold the upper arm at multiple angles from the body, and straps to immobilize the lower arm. The ability to put the arm in different positions for various periods to gently stretch the muscles and tendons around the shoulder can lead to a faster return to mobility and better flexibility. Some shoulder braces also have a therapy function to provide controlled movement for a set time spanning one or more intervals per day.
Dr. Strasburger will analyse your needs and help decide which type of shoulder brace and or sling is best for your recovery.