Football players move up and down the field in their protective gear knowing they will be hitting someone, and they have to protect themselves. Their bulky shoulder pads do most of the protection, but shoulder braces have become useful, as well. These pieces of equipment help reduce the onset of shoulder injuries, predominantly shoulder dislocations.
Shoulder Dislocations
Shoulder dislocations occur when the head of your humerus bone in your upper arm entirely pops out of its socket. Your shoulder will only dislocate when significant trauma occurs at first, but dislocations become easier each time a dislocation happens. Those who suffer from constant dislocations also can suffer from joint instability called shoulder subluxation. Your shoulder may dislocate, and quickly pop back into place without any trauma occurring as you go through your day.
Shoulder Pads
The big, bulky shoulder pads football players wear exist as the main line of defense against upper torso injuries. Wearing shoulder pads gives football players a shock absorber when engaged in contact. This absorbing effect benefits your bones, muscles and joints in the shoulder in that it diminishes the chances of having your shoulder dislocated.
Shoulder Injury Pad
One extra option to use with shoulder pads would be to use a shoulder injury pad. You wear these pieces of equipment underneath your shoulder pads for added protection. Shoulder injury pads add an extra half-inch to an entire inch of foam and vinyl for protection.
Shoulder Harness
For those athletes who are already suffering through shoulder dislocation issues or subluxations, you may need to look into getting a shoulder harness brace. These allow for natural motion while engaging in activity and sport, but allow extra support to your shoulder girdle, states Jim Clover, author of "Sports Medicine Essentials: Core Concepts in Athletic Training and Fitness Instruction." They allow for controlled restraint as well that will not allow your shoulder to move into a damaging position.
References
- "Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning"; Thomas R. Baechle and Roger W. Earle; 2008
- "Sports Medicine Essentials: Core Concepts in Athletic Training and Fitness Instruction"; Jim Clover; 2001
