The Best Type of Brace For a Rotator Cuff Tear

If you have a rotator cuff tear, you may be wondering what type of brace is best for you. There are many different types of braces available, but not all of them are right for every person. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of braces and how they can help you heal your rotator cuff tear. We will also talk about how to choose the right brace for you. So, keep reading to learn more!

But first, what is the rotator cuff and what are the symptoms of a torn rotator cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. These muscles and tendons help to lift the arm and stabilize the shoulder joint. A torn rotator cuff can occur due to repetitive stress or a sudden traumatic injury. Symptoms of a torn rotator cuff may include pain, weakness, and stiffness in the shoulder. The pain may intensify when lifting the arm or reaching overhead. A torn rotator cuff may also cause a crunching sensation when moving the shoulder. Treatment for a torn rotator cuff may include rest, ice, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

What is the best brace for a torn rotator cuff and how does it work to help with healing?

The best shoulder brace for a torn rotator cuff is one that is specifically designed for that purpose. There are many different types of braces on the market, but not all of them are equally effective at treating a torn rotator cuff. A good brace will provide support and stability to the area around the tear, helping to reduce pain and promote healing. It should also allow for a full range of motion so that you can continue to use your arm while wearing the brace. In most cases, a torn rotator cuff can be effectively treated with a combination of physical therapy and wearing a brace.

You may also want to consider a brace that has adjustable straps or pads so that you can customize the fit and level of support.

Check out this post from BeActive Physiotherapy about rotator cuff injury (Read the caption):

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What should you consider when choosing a shoulder support brace?

There are many different factors to consider when choosing your shoulder brace. These include: material, type, range of motion and level of support

Material

Neoprene – neoprene is lightweight, durable, and flexible. Additionally, neoprene helps wick away moisture and delivers continuous airflow to the area, which is perfect for retaining range of motion.

Polyester – Polyester is an optimal material because of its ability to withstand tension and last a long time. Many shoulder braces have a type of polyester fabric to protect it from moisture, while also repelling sweat and condensation.

Nylon – designed to be lightweight and comfortable, while still providing support for the arms.

Nylon Mesh – nylon mesh fabric in a shoulder brace improves breathability. By allowing airflow over the arm, the sling enhances comfort and prevents overheating and sweating.

Type

Wrap

Shoulder braces are designed to support and compress the shoulder while restricting range of motion. They open fully to accommodate limited mobility along with swelling and inflammation.

Sling

The sling arm support is designed to take the weight off your arm and help prevent fatigue from long-term recovery.

Shoulder Exercise courtesy of Market Mall Physiotherapy (Read the caption)

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Range of Motion

Stabilizer

Many shoulder braces on the market focus on stabilizing the shoulder during overhead movements. This makes them ideal for minor injuries or those further along in the recovery process.

Immobilizer

Immobilization braces prevent further injury to the rotator cuff by holding the arm in place. The abdominal pillow, made of high-density foam, contours to your body and keeps the arm at a safe 15-degree angle away from your body. It’s also removable for easy washing. This should only be used when recovering from a rotator cuff surgery.

The next thing to consider is the level of support:

Level of Support

The level of support a rotator cuff brace provides can vary. Some braces provide mild support for minor injuries which allows for some movement so you can still participate in most activities.

There are also moderate support braces which provide extra support and compression. These braces may be good to use when you are just beginning to return to your sport.

And finally, maximum support braces are what you’ll typically use at the beginning of a recovery from a rotator cuff repair surgery. This brace offers stabilization and support to the joint with a series of straps and supports. Some, like an abduction sling completely immobilizes the joint to prioritize healing.

Overall, there are many factors to consider when choosing the best shoulder brace for your needs. Whether you are looking for neoprene, polyester, nylon or something more specialized like a stabilizer or immobilizer, there is sure to be a brace that fits your individual needs and preferences. So take some time to do your research and find one that works for you. Most importantly, see a physiotherapist! They can recommend the right brace for your condition and also prescribe a treatment plan to accelerate your recovery and help avoid long-term problems if left untreated. To find a top physiotherapy clinic near you just click the “find a clinic” button on this page.

Shoulders snap, crackling and popping courtesy of Vitality Physiotherapy and Wellness Centre (Read the caption)

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Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an X-ray show a rotator cuff tear?

An X-ray does not show a rotator cuff tear, as these types of injuries are typically diagnosed using other imaging techniques like an MRI. However, in some cases a fracture or dislocation can lead to a rotator cuff injury, so your doctor may order X-rays as part of your diagnosis.

Do rotator cuff tears ever fully heal?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as a lot depends on the severity of your injury and whether it has been left untreated for a long time. Some people do experience full recovery from rotator cuff injuries with proper treatment and rehabilitation, while others may require surgery or ongoing treatment. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist about the best course of treatment for your specific condition.

What can be mistaken for rotator cuff injury?

There are many conditions that can be mistaken for a rotator cuff injury, including muscle strains, tendonitis, bursitis, frozen shoulder and shoulder dislocations or fractures. It is important to consult with your doctor or physiotherapist in order to get an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan to help you regain strength and mobility in your shoulder.

About Taylor Sipos

Taylor is a physiotherapist at The Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic located in Toronto, Ontario. He treats patients with various musculoskeletal conditions using patient education, exercise therapy, manual therapy and acupuncture. His treatment philosophy involves giving his patient’s the means to self-manage their injuries. He does this through reassurance, education and health promotion. Taylor uses the same principles as a patient educator at Pain Hero. He aims to provide you with high-quality, easy to understand information to teach you about your condition and how to improve it.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

The Best Type of Brace For a Rotator Cuff Tear