10 Best Shoulder Braces For Faster Healing – 2024
Dr. Dave Candy is a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy with 10 years of experience. He is also the owner of More 4 Life in St. Louis, MO. He specializes in helping people aged 40 and above deal with chronic, nagging aches and pains without having to resort to medications, injections, or surgery.
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Sakshi Bahal is a commerce writer with a master's degree in English Literature from Calcutta University. She was a part of the editorial team of her school magazine. Her love for writing inspired her to take up literature and follow that up with creative writing after completing her education.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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In This Article
Body aches are inevitable, whether you over-exert yourself or stick to your chair, resulting in stiffness. Shoulders are also gravely affected, which calls for the best shoulder braces to prevent aches. With constant aches, it is not only hard to be productive, but it also eats away from your resting and self-care time. Don’t worry, here is a list of non-surgical remedies to choose from. To keep your shoulder stable and healthy, scroll through these 10 best braces and buy one!
[table “1102” not found /]What Is A Shoulder Brace And How Does It Work?
Your shoulder is the most movable joint in your body. Just look at all the things you can do with it – from swinging a golf club to swimming the butterfly stroke – it offers an incredible range of motion. Dr. Dave Candy, physical therapist and Owner of More 4 Life, states, “Joint mobility and stability have an inverse relationship. Inherently, stable joints lack mobility, and inherently mobile joints lack stability. In the shoulder, instability can put you at higher risk of injury, particularly with overhead activities such as volleyball, basketball, weightlifting, and swimming.”
Healthcare specialists and physical therapy experts may recommend using a shoulder brace to help you with treatment and recovery when your shoulder is injured. A shoulder wrap brace is a compression wrap that provides much-needed support and stability to the fragile area. It relieves pain and sometimes restricts mobility to help the injury heal faster. You can get yourself fitted for the right size based on measurements of your chest and arms. Wear the correct size of the shoulder brace and feel the difference right away.
Read on to learn more about the 10 best shoulder braces of 2024, followed by a buying guide to help you select the best option for your needs.
Top 10 Shoulder Braces Of 2024
1. Best Inflatable Pad: NatraCure 6032 Hot/Cold & Compression Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The NatraCure 6032 Hot/Cold & Compression Shoulder Brace gives you the option of enjoying either heat or cold therapy, as well as compression therapy, depending on the treatment you need. It comes with a gel pack that you can either chill in the refrigerator or heat up in the microwave before use.
It is meant to be used together with the inflatable shoulder pad for maximum comfort. The NatraCure Shoulder Brace is universal, so you can wear it with equal ease on either shoulder. The easy-to-use air pump system lets you adjust the level of compression according to your comfort. It is an excellent choice for surgery recovery from shoulder injuries, such as tendinitis, bursitis, and torn tendon.
Pros
- Multiple adjustable straps for a perfect fit
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- Offers heat and cold therapy
- Fits chests up to 50 inches
- Helps speed up recovery time
- No prescription required
- Easy to use
- Air pump system for uniform compression
- Washable
- Reusable
Cons
- None
"This shoulder ice pack wrap has been such a relief during my rotator cuff recovery. Its fit is snug and manages to offer targeted compression. It is good to use for post-surgery comfort."
Pro Tip2. Best For Stability: Copper Compression Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The Copper Compression Shoulder Brace is made of 4-way stretch material that enhances natural movement and retains your range of motion. It has moisture-wicking properties that keep you cool, dry, and comfortable all day and night. The brace offers perfect compression and support for your shoulders and helps restore confidence. The copper-infused fabric is great for shoulder joint pain relief and arm stability. It also makes it hygienic and long-lasting. This shoulder brace is easy to wear and keeps your shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm protected and supported. This adjustable and affordable shoulder brace has received rave reviews from its users on different e-commerce sites and is perfect for people suffering from sprains, strains, torn rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, dislocated AC joints, AC separation, and muscle soreness.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustable fit
- Comfortable
- Moisture-wicking
- Pain-relieving
- Unisex
- Copper-infused support
- Fits well under clothes
- Can be worn on either shoulder
Cons
- Uncomfortable strap
"This shoulder brace offers both support and comfort. It is good to use during workouts. It eases the pain and is easy to put on."
3. Best For Sore Muscles: Fightech Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The Fightech Shoulder Brace is a helpful solution for dealing with sore muscles, joint pain, and injuries. The neoprene material is breathable and washable, making this brace a breathable and sanitary choice. It is also universal, so you can wear it on either shoulder comfortably.
There is an inbuilt pocket, where you can place a heat pad or an ice pack to treat specific issues using heat or cold therapy. The versatility of the Fightech Shoulder Brace lets you enjoy the complete range of movement during sports and offers an enhanced user experience. You can also use it for immobilization of your shoulder while resting.
Pros
- Made of breathable neoprene
- Machine-washable
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- Inbuilt pocket for ice or heat pack
- Improves range of motion
- Can be worn while sleeping
- Available in different colors
- 2 adjustable sizes
Cons
- May require assistance to put it on.
"This shoulder brace is quite versatile. It is very comfortable and offeres adjustable straps for a customized fit. It comes with some extras and provides relief for shoulder ailments."
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 2,219 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
NatraCure 6032 Hot/Cold & Compression Shoulder Brace Best Inflatable Pad | Copper Compression Shoulder Brace Best For Stability | Fightech Shoulder Brace Best For Sore Muscles | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | - | 6 x 4 x 0.5 inches | - |
| Weight | - | 6.91 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,174 | 1,187 | 2,219 |
| Price | $41.99 | $29.95 | $31.99 |
4. Best For All Day Use: VITAL SALVEO Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The VITAL SALVEO Shoulder Brace provides adequate stability, compression, and support. The elastic fabric supports your core muscles and helps them recover faster. The fabric is made of germanium and bamboo charcoal fiber that helps increase body heat and blood flow to speed up recovery. It also has a V-shaped elastic support that can stabilize the muscles and offer relentless, anti-fatigue performance. Many reviewers have testified that the brace is lightweight and features strong adjustable straps and a high-quality plastic buckle design for the right fit. It serves as a great support system for those with arthritis, dislocated AC joint, torn rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, shoulder pain, or any kind of sprains and strains. You can wear it all day long without any discomfort and under your clothing.
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Fast-healing
- Pain-relieving
- Moisture-wicking
- Adjustable fit
- Compression sleeve wrap
- V-shaped elastic support
- Velcro strap for arm tightness
- Improves circulation
- Unisex
Cons
- Not true to size
"These shoulder compression sleeves offer relief and support. The size is snug, so it's good to size up for added comfort. They also have added underarm padding and arm extension for convenience."
5. Best Affordable: McDavid Shoulder Support Brace
Product Claims
McDavid Shoulder Support Brace is a non-bulky option that you can wear with ease under your daily wear. It is ideal for posture correction and minor shoulder injuries, such as muscle pulls, that can occur during athletic activity. It is not an immobilizing brace, and your arms are free to move normally.
You can wear the brace comfortably on either shoulder and enjoy great support. It gives you a complete range of motion along with customizable compression using the adjustable arm closure. The patented HexPad technology sets the McDavid brace apart from its competitors. Many reviewers agree that the breathable padding system and contoured design provide the utmost protection and support.
Pros
- Available in 3 sizes
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- Made of breathable neoprene
- Lightweight design
- Adjustable hook and loop closure straps
- 100% latex-free
- Can be worn under clothes
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for high-impact sports.
- May feel uncomfortable under the arm.
"This shoulder brace is a good fit for those like me dealing with shoulder issues. It offers relief and helps manage the pain. It is comfortable for both work and sports. It is invisible under clothing."
6. Best No-Snag Design: EVS Sports SB03 Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
EVS Sports SB03 Shoulder Brace is a good choice if you are athletic – whether a college sportsperson, a professional athlete, or a casual golfer. This shoulder brace offers a high level of support to deal with shoulder instability and compression to ease pain related to severe shoulder injuries. It has also received numerous positive reviews from its users on different e-commerce platforms who claim that the product is comfortable to wear. The X-strap design is a handy innovation that keeps the brace from sliding around.
You can adjust the arm closure according to your comfort and tolerance. This will prevent underarm chafing and keep you comfortable while wearing it. The no-snag design keeps the brace from getting tangled with your clothes, while the breathable mesh helps reduce sweating.
Pros
- X-strap stabilizer system prevents sliding
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- Adjustable arm closure
- 3 velcro straps to control compression
- Comfortable to wear and take off
- Made of breathable air mesh
- TPR gripper pull tabs
Cons
- Velcro fabric wears out soon.
- Quality control issues may be present.
"This shoulder brace has been quite supportive after my injuries. It provides pain relief without limiting my movement. It has a snug fit and offers good comfort."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 1,227 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
7. Best For Compression-Based Healing: Suptrust Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The Suptrust Shoulder Brace consists of a breathable neoprene fabric that allows for a wide range of mobility. It comes with a pocket for cold or hot therapy packs, which can be adjusted to the desired compression using the hook and loop straps. The brace stabilizes your shoulder with compression-based healing and supports injured muscles by limiting movement. It has a low-profile, ergonomic design, making it comfortable for anyone and perfect for daily use. The brace offers immediate shoulder pain relief and protects your shoulder, AC joint, and upper arm. This rotator cuff brace has been a blessing for the torn rotator cuff, a bonus advantage in this recovery kit. It is an affordable option perfect for those who cannot sleep well due to pain.
Pros
- Breathable material
- Customizable X strap
- Adjustable chest strap
- Pressure pocket for hot or cold therapy
- Triple sewing technology
- Top quality hook and loop
- Strong, highly elastic velcro straps for a secure fit
- Fits left or right shoulder
- Unisex
Cons
- Has an unpleasant smell
"This shoulder brace offers relief. Its adjustable support is perfect during shoulder-related ailments. It is well-made and perfect for those looking for stability during daily tasks or sports."
8. Best For Post Operative Use: Saunders Sully Shoulder Support Brace
Product Claims
The Saunders Sully Shoulder Support Brace features a form-fitting design that is contoured to fit your body perfectly. It provides you with controlled movement, so you can go about your daily business without worrying about pain or injury. You can use the Velcro straps included with the brace to further secure and restrict shoulder movement.
This shoulder brace is perfect for post-operative use when you want to restrict the movement of the shoulder as much as possible. It also provides helpful support when you are in pain and keeps you comfortable. The material is perforated neoprene that offers an excellent strengthening grip and doesn’t allow for unnecessary sliding around.
Pros
- Available in 5 sizes
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- Suitable for post-operative use
- Helps with rotator cuff injuries
- Made of breathable neoprene
- Velcro straps for a snug fit
- Firm grip prevents sliding or bunching
Cons
- Expensive
- Quality control issues
- Sizing issues for some users
"This brace is very supportive and adaptable. It is comfortable and offer stability. It has versatile strap configurations that are great for healing different injuries."
9. Best For Under Clothes: Bauerfeind OmoTrain Shoulder Brace
Product Claims
The Bauerfeind OmoTrain Shoulder Brace is created using a lightweight knit fabric. This ensures that you can wear it discreetly under your business clothes and sport a professional look while keeping your shoulder in good health. The brace is designed to center your arm in its socket while allowing for an organic range of motion.
The design guides the arm in its natural movement but does not hinder mobility. It is easy to wear and take off, and you won’t need assistance to enjoy the support from this brace. Many reviewers agree that the strap closure ensures a snug fit that provides both compression and stability.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Can be worn under clothes
- Available in 7 sizes
- Promotes a natural range of motion
- Does not impact mobility
- Made of breathable fabric
- Can be worn on either shoulder
Cons
- Expensive
- May be too tight for muscular users.
- Stitching may be faulty in some cases.
"This shoulder brace offers good level of support that eases strain. The fit is excellent—not too tight or too loose. It is well-made and is quite comfortable to wear."
10. Best Airflow: Shock Doctor Shoulder Support Brace
Product Claims
The Shock Doctor Shoulder Support Brace is another popular option in the shoulder brace category. The upper shoulder stabilizing brace provides controlled compression. It also features a soft lycra mesh zone and N-Tex airflow panels, which make it extremely comfortable and breathable. You can choose from a wide range of sizes and use the adjustable strap system to get that perfectly snug fit.
The latex-free shoulder brace offers moderate stability and helps deal with shoulder injuries. It is universally designed, so you can wear it on either shoulder with equal ease. The N-Tex airflow vents on the brace keep moisture out and provide healing warmth to aid recovery.
Pros
- Available in multiple sizes
- Can be worn under clothes
- Can be worn on either shoulder
- N-Tex airflow for more breathability
- Provides level – 3 stability
- 2 adjustable chest-wrap straps for the perfect fit
Cons
- Needs assistance to be put on.
- May have a slight odor.
- May not work for larger sizes.
"The shoulder brace has been very supportive for injuries. It provides stability, especially during physical activity. It offers good support and helps manage discomfort."
Listed below are some benefits that you can hope to experience when you start wearing a shoulder brace.
Benefits Of Using A Shoulder Brace
1. Protection
For athletes who already face a high risk of injury due to the nature of the sport they play, it is essential to protect their shoulders at all costs. The support from a shoulder brace ensures minimal movement and keeps the area protected against further damage, especially in case of sports injury.
2. Injury Prevention
It’s not just athletes who can benefit from wearing a shoulder brace. People with genetic disorders may have weak shoulders. They can consider wearing a brace during daily activities to prevent getting injured in the weak spots. A shoulder brace is also useful for those who have had shoulder injuries previously and would like additional support for the vulnerable area for optimal injury management during intense physical activity.
3. Compression
The compression provided by a shoulder brace is immensely helpful as it boosts the skin receptors and aids the brain in a better understanding of the position of the shoulder. This trains the mind to avoid straining or overstretching the problem areas during particular tasks. Appropriate compression on swollen joints also relieves pain by easing inflammation.
4. Combat Ruptures
A shoulder brace is useful for immobilizing the shoulder in case of fractures or bone ruptures. It limits movement and allows the injured person to recover more quickly. The brace also controls the arm movement during strenuous activities to keep you safe.
5. Exercise Support
Sometimes, devoted athletes push themselves too hard to achieve their next milestone. The risk of dislocation or rupturing critical muscles is quite high in such cases. Wearing a shoulder brace during stretching exercise provides vital support and also prevents untoward accidents.
6. Affordable
Shoulder braces are not expensive, and you can easily afford a high-quality material product without burning a big hole in your pocket.
7. Multiple Size Options
People of all ages and sizes can use a shoulder brace. The best models vary in chest size and are designed to fit all kinds of body shapes. As long as you purchase one that is the correct size for you, the shoulder brace is sure to provide maximum support.
8. Need Not Be Worn 24×7
If you think a shoulder brace works like a plaster and is required to be worn for an extended period of time, well, think again. A shoulder brace is a rehabilitation device that helps an injured shoulder heal to full and long term recovery. Many athletes wear one while playing or doing pain relief exercises or other physical activities and then take it off as soon as they are done.
There are three levels of support provided by the various shoulder braces for different types of injuries or needs. You must be familiar with these levels to pick the right one for your needs. Read on for more information on the kind of support you can expect from each support level.
Different Levels Of Shoulder Brace Support
- Level 1 Shoulder Brace – Compression-Alignment-Healing
Compression-focused designs usually offer level 1 support. This implies light support for minor injuries, such as a slight sprain or a strain on the shoulder. You can wear a level 1 brace daily for long periods without any worries. Compression helps support soft tissues and joint alignment, provides heat therapy, and boosts blood circulation.
- Level 2 Shoulder Brace – Support-Compression-Alignment-Healing
A level 2 shoulder brace provides you with all the same benefits as its level 1 counterpart, while also adding extra support with more stability. It also gives you adjustable compression that can help with moderate sprains and unstable joints.
- Level 3 Shoulder Brace – Stability-Support-Compression-Alignment-Healing
As implied, a level 3 support is the maximum support, and a shoulder brace with level 3 support is meant for use in recovery from serious injuries. These include ligament tears, muscle sprains and strains, and fragile joints. A level 3 shoulder brace also provides more advanced design and support features.
Yes, we know you can’t wait to buy a brand new shoulder brace and hit the gym with renewed enthusiasm. But wait. It is essential to be informed on the features of a good shoulder brace that you must check out before you click “Add To Cart.”
What To Look For When Buying A Shoulder Brace
1. Size
As explained earlier, shoulder braces come in several sizes. These sizes vary from one brand to another. It is essential to get yourself correctly fitted before you buy a shoulder brace. Also, note that some models offer a one-size-fits-all design. Make sure that your measurements match the size chart listed by the manufacturer before purchase.
2. Material
Shoulder braces made of neoprene are most breathable and comfortable and keep you cool even when you are working up a sweat. They are also machine-washable, so you don’t have to worry about hygiene.
3. Design
Depending on the model, shoulder braces usually work as stabilizers or immobilizers. A stabilizing shoulder brace is meant to offer support while letting you retain some flexibility in your arm for movement. An immobilizing brace limits all movement to help you recover from more severe injuries.
4. Level Of Support
Do check the level of support provided by your brace. For daily use and limited support, a level 1 shoulder brace should be fine. However, if your injury is more severe, you can opt for a higher level of support in consultation with your health advisor.
5. Hot/Cold Therapy
Several shoulder braces offer an integrated pressure pad, where you can place a cold or hot gel pack. This lets you enjoy heat or cold therapy as needed for your injury.
Along with these, check out the reviews of the products on various e-commerce platforms. This will help you get a better understanding of the hands-on experience of the users with the products and help you make an informed decision.
Infographic: Care And Maintenance Of Shoulder Braces
Shoulder braces are useful recovery aids that speed up the healing process and prevent further injuries. It is important to maintain these shoulder braces in good condition to extend their lifespan and improve their effectiveness, stability, and comfort. Check out the infographic below for some simple care and maintenance tips for your shoulder braces.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
When we are injured and our movements are restricted, we should not give up any opportunity that can help us get out of the situation faster or give us some relief. Shoulder braces ace the game of both bringing pain relief and accelerating recovery. They limit excess movement and put gentle pressure on your shoulders to alleviate pain. Some of them, like the NatraCure 6032 Hot/Cold & Compression Shoulder Brace, offer heat and cold therapy, while others come with in-built pockets for hot and cold compression. The Copper Compression Shoulder Brace provides added comfort and relief as copper is believed to aid in joint and muscle support. For those seeking stability during activities, the McDavid Shoulder Support Brace provides support without compromising mobility. They are made of soft, breathable fabric that keeps your shoulder comfortable. Some also have an adjustable shoulder pad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do shoulder braces work?
Yes. Shoulder braces limit shoulder movement and reduce the risk of muscle and bone dislocation and damage. Also, these braces offer compression to the skin and tissues in and around your shoulder.
What kind of brace should I wear for shoulder pain?
A sling brace is ideal for relieving shoulder pain. It immobilizes and stabilizes your shoulder muscles and provides adequate compression.
How long should I wear a shoulder brace?
Wear a shoulder brace for three to four hours at a time.
When should you wear a shoulder brace?
Wear shoulder braces to reduce pains related to rotator cuff tears, muscle dislocations, separation, and muscle strains.
Can I sleep with a shoulder brace on?
Yes. You can sleep with a shoulder brace on.
Why does my shoulder pain increase at night?
At night, the inflammation worsens and strains your shoulder muscles. This causes your shoulder to pain more at night.
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