Providing the shoulder with support is an important element when protection is needed in the area. This is especially true in contact sports such as rugby, where shoulder dislocation can easily occur. Also helpful in cases of frozen shoulders, broken collar bones, acromio-clavicular and rotator cuff injuries, a shoulder support keeps the area stable during the healing process. A shoulder support protects the vulnerable area through its snug fit, where it retains body heat to keep the muscles warm. This is an essential element in injury prevention. In addition, a shoulder support can relieve the pain due to sprains, strains, tendinitis and bursitis. A shoulder support will also speed up the healing process by helping to rehabilitate the soft tissue around an injured area. Wearing a shoulder support improves performance in a given sport by providing the athlete with greater security in what may be an already weakened joint due to repetitive use.
What to Look for
Shoulder supports come in varying models with variable compression, depending on the need. Look for a neoprene model that comes with either a Velcro fastener that makes it easy to put on and take off or a hook-and-loop closure for extra snugness. Look for a close fit when choosing your size and model. Some shoulder supports come with pockets that fit over the joint area for insertion of a hot or cold pack or for placing additional protective padding in the area. This is an important feature since hot or cold packs are very effective in speeding up the healing process.
Common Pitfalls
If your shoulder support is loose, you will not get the protection you need, especially if you are under pressure from a contact sport. You do not want to compromise an already injured shoulder, so make sure that the fit is snug but not so tight that it cuts off blood flow. Wash your shoulder support in cold water with mild soap after each use to prevent mildew. Your shoulder support should be thoroughly dry before you place it back on your body.
