Choosing a Shoulder Support

Single Shoulder Supports

• Most supports are designed to support one shoulder only. They are usually made of neoprene, which is a synthetic form of rubber, known for its heat retaining properties. It is also highly comfortable and provides compression to the joint. Single shoulder supports usually wrap around the shoulder and upper arm and have a strap which is pulled across the chest to pull the joint in towards the body and stabilise it.
• Suitable for - most shoulder injuries, including muscle tears, Tendinitis, dislocations and frozen shoulder.
• Advantages - comfort and warmth for the injured joint with moderate support.
• Disadvantages - support level is moderate only.
• Examples - McDavid 462; LP738; LP732

Double Shoulder Supports

• Some shoulder supports are designed to cover both shoulders. They are also usually made of neoprene and often fit on like a jacket.
• Suitable for - bilateral shoulder injuries such as arthritic conditions or frozen shoulder.
• Advantages - warmth and compression for both shoulders
• Disadvantages - the level of support may be less than the single shoulder supports as there is no chest strap to pull the shoulder in.
• Examples - LP770

McDavid 462 single shoulder support

LP770 double shoulder support