How to Care for Your Shoulder Brace Effectively

Shoulder braces are known to be valuable tools used to support recovery, stabilize the joint, and manage pain. Many injuries and conditions such as rotator cuff injury, subluxation of the shoulder, or chronic pain, can be supported by a brace. Braces can be helpful in reducing pain, improving mobility, and accelerating healing of the joint. In order for a brace to be helpful and long lasting you will need to take care of the product. We will discuss tips on how to increase the longevity of your shoulder brace.  

Follow Instructions 

All braces should come with an instruction booklet with directions on how to put on the product and how to care for it. Depending on the type of material used and the type of brace there will be different care instructions. There will also be directions on how to adjust the brace in order for it to work properly for certain conditions. A section of the booklet should show how to wash, dry, and care for the brace. By following these instructions you will get the most benefits from the brace and have it last for a long time. 

Keep it clean

Proper cleaning of the brace will ensure that you get all-day wearing comfort. If the brace is dirty and stretched out it will not provide the support needed. Not keeping the brace clean can cause skin irritation issues and odors. Keeping up with a regular cleaning schedule is smart in order to prevent the growth of bacteria and adverse side effects of the brace. More often than not shoulder braces should be hand washed and air-dried. Some braces can be put in the washing machine but it is consistent that braces in general should be air-dried. The temperature from the drying machine can destroy the fabric and shrink the product. 

Inspect the brace for damag

When first receiving a brace you should always inspect it to ensure that it is in perfect condition. As you wear the brace you should consistently check if any damage has occurred to the brace as you have worn it. This just ensures that the brace will continue to function and assist the joint as needed in the recovery process. Some issues you may find are: torn fabric and/or straps, loose stitching, and broken buckles or velcro. These are all factors that can affect the performance of the brace. You will want to check the warranty on products, as there are many different warranty times on orthopedic devices as they are medical devices. You may have to replace the brace entirely if the product cannot be returned or exchanged. 

Adjust the fit 

In order for the brace to be beneficial it is important for the fit to be catered to your body and certain conditions. Many conditions that require a brace, can result in some inflammation of the joint. Over the recovery process, the inflammation may go down. In these situations, you will need to adjust the brace as it may not fit snugly or comfortably. Another situation is when a brace is required to restrict the range of motion. As the healing process continues your healthcare provider may suggest you to increase the range of motion of the joint. In this case, you may need to adjust the fit and accommodate for the new requirements for recovery. It is important to regularly check on pressure points that may be caused by the brace. This can be common for an ill-fitting brace, especially around the armpit. 

Store brace properly

When the brace is not in use, you should be storing it appropriately. This ensures the brace remains in proper condition and you can get the most out of it. Be sure to avoid throwing the brace in bags or drawers where it can be bent out of shape or damaged. You will want it keep it in a dry place so there is no risk of mold or mildew forming on the brace. Avoid keeping it in damp conditions. It is also recommended to place the product in a case or box that it came in or you can find a place to hang the brace up in order to assist in keeping the shape. 

Consult with Healthcare Professional 

As you recover from an injury or condition, it is smart to consult a healthcare practitioner in order to see if the brace is still required. Changes may need to be made to the brace or your form of treatment. Regular check-ins are always recommended. 

Taking good care of your shoulder brace will be important in ensuring the brace will work for you. By following the tips provided above you can make sure the brace will continue to assist you in recovering for the full duration of your injury.