The Best Shoulder Braces for Dislocation

A dislocated shoulder is usually caused by trauma that forces the upper arm out of the shoulder socket. Shoulder braces for dislocation alleviate pain and accelerate healing by delivering compression and restricting movement.

Some shoulder braces also deliver cold and hot therapy to either numb pain and reduce swelling or soothe sore muscles. Take a look at our list of the best shoulder braces for dislocation, and speed up your recovery.

How to Treat a Shoulder Dislocation

Aside from immobilization, a shoulder dislocation can be treated in the following manner.

• Closed Reduction

  Administered by a doctor, closed reduction is the most common treatment for a shoulder dislocation. Shoulder reduction involves gentle maneuvers to guide the shoulder joint back into its appropriate position. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may give you a muscle relaxant, sedative, or even general anesthetic during the procedure.

• Shoulder Dislocation Surgery

  Surgery may be required to repair a damaged labrum, the ring of rubbery tissue attached to the shoulder socket that helps to keep it in place. Your doctor may also recommend shoulder surgery if you have a weak shoulder joint or ligaments, or have experienced recurring shoulder dislocations.

• Ice and Heat Therapy

  Icing is recommended immediately following an injury and once your shoulder joint is back in the shoulder socket to reduce pain and swelling. Apply ice to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes every couple of hours for the first 48 to 72 hours. After the first few days, heat therapy can help soothe sore muscles. Many shoulder braces come with an option for ice and heat therapy.

• Medication

  Taking over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, can help to alleviate both pain and inflammation. Keep in mind that these drugs have side effects and should not be used for extended periods of time. Your doctor may also prescribe a stronger painkiller or a muscle relaxant to minimize pain during the healing process.

Q & A on Shoulder Dislocation

• How to Prevent Shoulder Dislocation?

  There are a few simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of shoulder dislocation. Regular shoulder exercises can help you maintain joint and muscle strength, making injury less likely. As shoulder dislocation is often caused by falls, try to pay attention when walking or running. If you take part in contact sports, such as football or hockey, wear protective gear during games to protect your shoulders.

• Shoulder Dislocation Causes

  As a shoulder joint can move in different directions, it can dislocate forward (anterior dislocation), backward (posterior dislocation), and downward (inferior dislocation). Shoulder dislocation is usually caused by a sudden blow or extreme rotation that pulls the joint out of the shoulder socket. Sports injuries, falls, and car accidents are the most common causes of shoulder dislocations.

• How is Shoulder Dislocation Diagnosed?

  When examining a potential shoulder dislocation, your doctor will check for swelling, bruising, and tenderness by gently feeling your shoulder. If a shoulder dislocation is suspected they will then order a shoulder dislocation X-ray or an MRI to confirm their diagnosis.

Shoulder Dislocation Rehab Exercises

After you stop wearing a shoulder brace, your doctor is likely to recommend shoulder dislocation exercises to gradually restore your range of motion and strengthen your shoulder. Here are a few shoulder exercises you can try in the comfort of your own home. Be sure to consult your doctor if you have any questions.

• Wall Push-Ups

  Stand around 30 to 60 centimeters from a wall with your feet slightly apart. Place your hands on the wall and slowly lean your body forward before returning to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times. If you feel any discomfort during this exercise, stand closer to the wall.

• Shoulder Flexion

  Lie on your back with your knees bent. Hold a stick in front of you with both hands—your palms should be facing down and your hands should be slightly wider apart than your shoulders. Keeping your arms straight, raise the stick over your head until you feel a stretch. Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds before putting your arms back down. Repeat this move two to four times.

• Internal Rotator Exercise

  Tie an elastic band to a hook or a doorknob. Sit or stand with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle. Place a rolled-up towel between your body and elbow for comfort. Hold onto the other end of the elastic band and bring your arm towards you until it touches your belly. Return to the starting position and repeat this exercise 10 times.

Weighing All the Factors

After a thorough review, our pick for the best shoulder brace for dislocation goes to Vive’s shoulder abduction sling. Featuring two adjustable straps, a removable foam pillow, and an integrated thumb loop, it offers all you need to protect your shoulder during the recovery process. Following in a close second are EVS Sports’ shoulder brace and NatraCure’s compression shoulder support, each with its own unique strengths.