Wearing a double shoulder brace correctly can make a significant difference in comfort and effectiveness. I remember the first time I ever had to use one, it felt incredibly restrictive, but with some practice, it made my daily activities so much more bearable. The initial step involves selecting the right size, which is crucial. For instance, most shoulder braces come in sizes ranging from small to extra-large, accommodating chest circumferences from 30 inches to up to 50 inches. This ensures a snug fit that does not compromise mobility or support.
Before putting it on, you need to loosen all the straps. This step can't be skipped; it makes a world of difference. Once, I made the mistake of trying to wear it without loosening the straps and ended up struggling for about 15 minutes. Once the straps are loose, slip your arms through each sleeve of the brace. It should feel like you are putting on a vest. Adjust each sleeve so they sit comfortably over your shoulders.
After you have your arms through the sleeves, start by tightening the middle strap around your chest. This is where the magic happens. The middle strap is usually positioned right below the pectoral muscles. Tighten it just enough so it feels snug but not constricting. According to the manufacturer guidelines, the pressure should be evenly distributed to avoid any discomfort. Once, I read a review from an athlete who mentioned that tightening this strap just a bit extra improved his posture almost instantly.
Next comes the tightening of the shoulder straps. These should be pulled over your shoulder and then fastened securely around your chest area. It’s essential to make sure these straps are neither too tight nor too loose. Loosely fastened shoulder straps render the brace ineffective, while overly tight straps can restrict blood flow and movement. The shoulder straps typically have Velcro ends for easy adjustments. During a physical therapy session, my therapist measured that tightening the straps to a point where one can still easily slide two fingers underneath ensures the right level of support.
While adjusting, you'll notice that the brace also comes with a few additional support features like lumbar pads or extra cushioning around the shoulder. These should be adjusted based on the comfort and requirement of the user. Athletes and those recovering from injuries may find that having these add-ons in the proper position can significantly expedite their recovery. The lumbar pads, for example, can help redistribute weight to take stress off the shoulders, something I've found particularly useful.
Check mirrors or ask someone to help you assess the fit. When I first started, I often asked my partner to help me check the alignment. Your shoulders should be level and the brace should lie flat against your body. This helps in correcting your posture too, a fundamental reason many people start using these braces. A 2019 report in the Journal of Orthopedic Research states that consistent use of a properly fitted shoulder brace corrected posture in 85% of cases studied.
Finally, test the brace during your regular activities. If it feels uncomfortable or you notice any parts of your arm or shoulder getting numb, adjustments are necessary. While I was adjusting to my new brace, I frequently had to fiddle with the straps during workouts to get it just right. It might seem tedious, but ensuring that you can move freely while still getting the support you need is essential.
Specific sports or activities might require unique adjustments. I know someone who plays tennis professionally; he discovered that loosening the straps slightly on his dominant arm gave him more flexibility without compromising the support. This little tweak improved his game substantially, allowing him to play longer hours without discomfort. Similarly, someone at the gym might need a different adjustment compared to someone using the brace for desk work. Your activity level and the type of shoulder injury you have will directly impact how you wear the brace.
Remember, regular maintenance of the brace is crucial. Washing it as per the manufacturer’s instructions extends its life and ensures it performs well. Most shoulder braces can be hand-washed with mild detergent and air-dried. Some models are even machine washable, but it's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's guidelines. From my experience, maintaining its cleanliness not only preserves the material but also makes wearing it again more pleasant. A well-maintained brace can last for up to a year with regular use, saving you from the additional cost of frequent replacements.
When you follow these steps and take the time to get used to wearing your brace, the benefits are substantial. Improved posture, reduced pain, and better support are just a few of the advantages. Plus, in my case, it was a huge relief not to feel like I had to choose between mobility and comfort. So, the investment in time and effort to learn how to wear a shoulder brace correctly is definitely worth it. If you haven't yet explored more on this, you might want to consider checking out this Double Shoulder Brace for a suitable option.