The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body. It is complex, as it is formed by the connection 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 participates in all movements of the hand. Therefore, there are many diseases in which there is pain and discomfort. The main method of treatment of such pathologies is the immobilization of the hand. Recently, shoulder orthoses have been actively used for this. These are ready-made devices that fix the joint and hand in a position that prevents pain and promotes recovery.
Functions of orthoses
Such orthopedic devices are used to immobilize and fix the joint, limit its movements or relieve stress. This is necessary to prevent injuries, restore damaged muscles and ligaments, and reduce pain. For this, fixedoften not only the joint itself, but the whole arm. Orthosis can capture the collarbone, shoulder blade, forearm. With proper selection and application, it performs the following functions:
- reduces pain and inflammation;
- relieves stress from muscles and ligaments;
- prevents joint deformity in degenerative pathologies;
- restricts motor activity;
- fixes the joint in the correct position.
Varieties
Shoulder orthoses are different in structure, degree of fixation and material of manufacture. First of all, they are divided into soft, semi-rigid and hard. Soft ones 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 hard 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 for the shoulder joint and arm completely fixes the limb, excluding any movement. They usually have a plastic or metal frame. They are used after injuries and operations instead of a plaster cast.
In addition, shoulder orthoses are divided according to the functions they perform.
- The immobilizing bandage can be semi-rigid or rigid. It fixes the shoulder joint, preventing any movement. For this, the orthosis has stiffeners, metal inserts and durablemounts. These bandages include Dezo's bandage, kerchief bandage.
- There is also a shoulder abduction orthosis. With the help of various devices, for example, metal inserts or a soft pillow, the arm is retracted from the body and fixed at a certain angle. They are used after a dislocation of the joint, damage to the ligaments, after operations.
- Supporting orthosis is used to prevent sprains of muscles and ligaments. A variation of it is a restrictive orthosis, which, using straps or elastic fasteners, limits the movement of the arm, preventing dislocation.
Why do you need a shoulder brace
Such devices should be worn as prescribed by a doctor for various pathologies of the joint, muscles, ligaments, or after injuries. Soft bandages are recommended for prophylaxis during increased physical exertion. Therefore, they are in demand by athletes, as the shoulder joint is often injured. And the limiting bandage will help to avoid overload and high-amplitude movements. In addition, the use of shoulder orthoses is prescribed in the following cases:
- in inflammatory diseases of the joints;
- with degenerative-dystrophic processes in the shoulder joint;
- with adhesive capsulitis;
- in case of joint instability;
- after injuries - dislocations, fractures, sprains;
- to limit motor mobility in neurological pathologies;
- after surgery or joint replacement.
How to choose the right orthosis
In order for such a device to perform its functions, a doctor must choose it. It will be guided by the degree of damage to the joint, motor activity and age of the patient. An incorrectly chosen 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 pay attention to when buying?
- First of all, the orthosis must fit. Although these devices have elastic closures and can tighten if the brace is not properly sized, it will not work.
- You need to pay attention to the purpose of the orthosis and the degree of fixation. Choose only the one recommended by the doctor.
- The material of manufacture is also important. It is desirable that the inner side is made of natural, hypoallergenic fabrics. It is also necessary to pay attention to the convenience and strength of fasteners and Velcro.
Best shoulder orthoses
In order for such devices to perform their functions correctly, you need to choose not only the material and degree of fixation, but also the manufacturer. There are several well-known companies that produce such orthopedic products. They have proven themselves from the best side, as they produce high-quality and functional products:
- Germany's MEDI produces quality fixing bars;
- popularFosta products;
- OTTO BOCK shoulder orthoses 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 only be used as prescribed by a doctor. They completely exclude hand movement, 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 this depends on the purpose of its use. Supporting or limiting orthoses are put on as a preventive measure during physical exertion, if necessary. 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 shoulder orthoses is contraindicated. First of all, these are dermatological diseases, skin damage, allergic reactions. In addition, orthoses are not used in the presence of tumors and serious injuries requiring surgical intervention.
The care of such products is simple. If necessary, they can be washed in cool water without the use of bleach or harsh detergents. Wring out gently, and dry in a straightened form, not on a radiator. Metal and plastic parts must be thoroughly dried. With the right choice and use, shoulder orthoses make life much easier for people with various pathologies.
