The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body. It is complex in structure, as it is formed by the union of several bones. A large number of muscles and ligaments provide its stabilization and the ability to move in different directions. This joint is constantly subjected to heavy loads, as it is involved in all movements of the arm. Therefore, there are many diseases in which pain and discomfort arise. The main method of treatment of such pathologies is the immobilization of the hand. Recently, shoulder orthoses are actively used for this. These are ready-made devices that fix the joint and arm in a position that prevents pain and helps to recover.
Orthosis Functions
Such orthopedic devices are used to immobilize and fix the joint, restrict its movements or relieve stress. This is necessary to prevent injuries, restore damaged muscles and ligaments, reduce pain. For this, not only the joint itself, but also the entire arm is often fixed. The orthosis can capture the collarbone, scapula, forearm. With proper selection and application, it performs the following functions:
- reduces pain and inflammation;
- relieves stress from muscles and ligaments;
- prevents joint deformation in degenerative pathologies;
- limits motor activity;
- fixes the joint in the correct position.
Varieties
Shoulder braces are different in structure, degree of fixation and material of manufacture. First of all, they are divided into soft, semi-rigid and hard. Soft are used for preventive purposes to reduce the load on the joint, they are made of elastic synthetic materials. Semi-rigid - for the treatment of inflammatory and degenerative pathologies, for pain and during recovery from injuries. They have rigid inserts made of plastic and metal, fasteners and fasteners. Such bandages do not completely fix the joint, leaving little room for movement. A rigid orthosis on the shoulder joint and arm completely fixes the limb, excluding any movement. Usually they have a plastic or metal frame. Apply them after injuries and operations instead of a plaster cast.
In addition, the brachial orthoses are divided according to the functions that they perform.
- The immobilizing bandage is semi-rigid or rigid. It fixes the shoulder joint, preventing any movement. For this, the orthosis has stiffeners, metal inserts and strong mounts. These bandages include the bandage Deso, kerchief bandage.
- There is also a shoulder abduction orthosis. With the help of various devices, for example, metal inserts or a soft pillow, the hand is withdrawn from the body and fixed at a certain angle. They are used after dislocation of the joint, damage to the ligaments, after operations.
- Supportive brace is used to prevent muscle and ligament sprain. A variation of it is the limiting orthosis, which with the help of straps or elastic fasteners restricts the movements of the hand, preventing the appearance of a dislocation.
Why do you need an orthosis on the shoulder joint
Such devices should be worn as prescribed by the doctor for various pathologies of the joint, muscles, ligaments or after injuries. Soft bandages are recommended for prophylaxis with increased physical exertion. Therefore, they are in demand by athletes, as the shoulder joint is often exposed to injuries. A limiting bandage will help to avoid overload and high-amplitude movements. In addition, the use of brachial orthoses is prescribed in the following cases:
- with inflammatory diseases of the joints;
- with degenerative processes in the shoulder joint;
- with adhesive capsulitis;
- with joint instability;
- after injuries - dislocations, fractures, sprains;
- to limit motor mobility in neurological pathologies;
- after surgery or joint replacement.
How to choose an orthosis
In order for such a device to perform its functions, the doctor must choose it. He will be guided by the degree of joint damage, motor activity and the age of the patient. An incorrectly selected orthosis will not only not help, but can even lead to a deterioration in the condition of the shoulder joint. The doctor will help determine the type of orthosis, but the patient will choose the specific model himself. What should I look for when buying?
- First of all, the orthosis must be suitable in size. Despite the fact that such devices have elastic fasteners and can be delayed if the orthosis is not sized to fit, it will not perform its functions.
- It is necessary to pay attention to the purpose of the orthosis and the degree of fixation. Choose only the one recommended by the doctor.
- Manufacturing material is also important. It is desirable that the inside be made of natural, hypoallergenic fabrics. You must also pay attention to the convenience and durability of fasteners and Velcro.
The best shoulder braces
In order for such devices to properly perform their functions, it is necessary to choose not only the material and degree of fixation, but also the manufacturer. There are some of the most famous companies that produce similar orthopedic products. They have proven themselves from the best side, as they produce high-quality and functional products:
- German company MEDI produces high-quality locking tires;
- Fosta products are popular
- OTTO BOCK shoulder braces are made of quality material;
- you can pay attention to ORLETT products;
- high-quality orthoses are also produced by the Russian company Trives.
Terms of use
Fixing orthoses on the shoulder joint can be used only as directed by a doctor. They completely exclude the movement of the hand, which, without special need, can lead to muscle atrophy. The duration of wearing is also determined by the doctor, usually they are not removed even at night, but it depends on the purpose of its use. Supportive or limiting orthoses are put on as a prophylactic measure if necessary during physical exertion. If they are prescribed for the treatment of chronic diseases, the wearing time is also determined by the doctor.
There are certain conditions in which the use of brachial orthoses is contraindicated. First of all, it is dermatological diseases, skin lesions, allergic reactions. In addition, do not use orthoses in the presence of tumors and serious injuries requiring surgical intervention.
Care for such products is simple. If necessary, they can be washed in cool water without the use of bleaches or aggressive detergents. Squeeze gently, and dry straightened not on the heating battery. Metal and plastic parts must be thoroughly wiped. With the right choice and application, shoulder braces make life easier for people with various pathologies.