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Best shoulder support & braces for football - Buying Guide: 2024

Football is a sport in which the shoulders play an important role, since they are affected by the constant impacts and forces exerted on them. In this case, the use of sports shoulder braces is essential in this activity to prevent dislocations and other injuries, since they act as a shock absorber in sudden collisions with other players.

In this discipline there is a myth that "it is the most dangerous sport", but if you protect yourself appropriately, you can practice it without major dangers. Here we will learn about its characteristics, types, analysis of its function in football and even the most common injuries while playing.

What is the best shoulder brace for football injuries?

Babo Care - Shoulder Brace for Men and Women with Pressure Pad Light & Breathable Neoprene
  • Sizes: One size
  • Colors: Black
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Two modes of fastening
  • Cold-Heat pad option
  • Good compression
  • Breathable
  • Not machine washable
  • One only size
To speed up the remission of a shoulder injury you can use the Babo Care padded brace. It is constructed with black neoprene and adjustable straps that allow you to maintain a more comfortable elasticity around the circumference of the arm and chest. The double pressurization helps strengthen tendonitis, bursitis, tears or dislocations treatments, so if the injury is treated in time, the inflammation will disappear much faster.

The splint comes with a pressure pad to place a hot or cold pack. In this way you will achieve therapeutic effects generated by thermal variation therapies. The Velcro strap often disturbs the area under the armpits if not positioned correctly and, in some women, can cause tightness in the bust. The support is not strong enough for sports or sleeping.

NatraCure - Hot & Cold and Compression Shoulder Support for Strains and Pain
  • Sizes: One size
  • Colors: Black
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: Yes
  • Quality material
  • For both shoulders
  • With compression air pump
  • Cold-Heat pad option
  • Too bulky
Compression and cold-heat therapies are united in this shoulder support. It uses an air pump that inflates, through a hose, to an internal pad. On the other hand, it is possible to place or disassemble a second internal pack to put it in the refrigerator or microwave and get the desired temperature. With this you will get the therapeutic benefits of cold-heat therapy.

Its use is very simple, you just have to place the arm inside the protector and inflate it until you get the desired support. If you are going to do sports, you should keep in mind that the space will be reduced between the splint and the arm, so it is advisable not to inflate it too much. The treatment, although this gel pack is not includeThis support is ideal for R.I.C.E. treatments, but you must take into account that the placement is uncomfortable because the seams start from the back and you will need another person when it is the turn of the diagonal straps.

Shock Doctor - Shoulder Support Brace for Men for Prevents injuries & AC Sprains
  • Sizes: XS-L-XL-XXL-XXXL
  • Colors: Black
  • Material: Lycra & Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Two adjustable straps
  • Multi position
  • For both shoulders
  • N-Tex neoprene
  • Small sizes
  • Not machine washable
The Shock Doctor shoulder brace helps maintain stability and allows greater blood flow in the area affected by sprains, dislocations, tendinitis or osteoarthritis. Its lycra and neoprene structure with ventilation allows up to 3 levels of protection, which helps to better support both shoulders. It can be used by men or women when playing sports, working or sleeping.

Its washable anatomical design, designed to absorb moisture and not damage the skin, is durable and reusable because it does not deform over time. You can choose the alignment according to your needs, but this is not always the case for all bodies, as it depends on the person's build. Keep in mind that the material is hot, so in summer or in times of high temperatures its use may be uncomfortable.

Zeegler Orthosis - Shoulder Support Brace for Men & Women for Dislocated AC Joint & Subluxation
  • Sizes: S-M & M-XL
  • Colors: Black & Blue
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Good fit
  • Maximum support
  • Diferentes tallas
  • Different sizes
  • Too bulky
  • Gel pad not included
Zeegler Orthosis offers for men and women its shoulder support with adjustable wrap so that, with its washable neoprene strap, it adapts to the size of any person. This brace provides stability and compression, helping to relieve shoulder pain caused by dislocations, tears, frozen shoulder and minor discomfort. You can also use it to prevent injuries when playing sports or when you need to recover from surgery.

The circumference of the arm and the anatomical shoulder area has three perforated layers to maintain greater comfort and allow the skin to breathe. The ease of configuration generates individual fitting, but you should be aware that compression can cause the plastic adjustment clips to put incorrect pressure on the biceps and torso. Finally, consider that the different sizes indicated on the product are not always accurate.

Dr. Arthritis - Shoulder Support with Strap for pain Relief & Shoulder Injuries
  • Sizes: One size
  • Colors: 2 Options - Black, Pink
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Soft and comfortable neoprene material
  • Includes a user manual
  • Easy one-handed adjustment
  • Quality material
  • Gel pad not included
  • Thin material
The health support is designed to generate a simple solution. The extensible strap that has to pass through the chest to fit the chest of the person, this will allow the splint is placed on the left or right shoulder perfectly. Its black neoprene structure, softly stitched, allows to immobilize and protect the shoulder from sudden movements that are made in sports. It also helps to restore mobility and prevent wear and tear of arthritis, tendinitis and bursitis.

In the manual enclosed in this offer you will find different tips that will help you improve your lifestyle to avoid future injuries. Its placement is simple and its one-size-fits-all design allows you to keep the straps in place at all times, although the strap may be too long for those with a small frame.

Vital Salveo - Shoulder Brace Compression Sleeve Wrap with Support and Stability Breathable
  • Sizes: S-M-L-XL-XXL
  • Colors: Black & Grey
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Closure with elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Great compression and good support
  • Strong adjustable straps
  • Very good elasticity
  • Quality material
  • Gel pad not included
The Vital Salveo compression sleeve allows you to keep the shoulder in the correct position when you do sports, drive your car or perform any type of task that can injure the tissues of the joint. It is available in light gray color and its material is made of plastic fiber, so it is recommended to wear this compressive splint over clothing.

The adjustable straps work together with the V-shaped support of the sleeve, making the product suitable for use on any shoulder. The different sizes available generate greater stability for each type of user's thoracic build. The sleeve has three velcro straps on the inside, this helps to cover the circumference of the biceps for a better feeling of control and fixation of the shoulder. In some cases, these fastening straps do not work properly due to the tension they support.

Anoopsyche - Shoulder Brace Support for Dislocated AC Joint, Frozen Shoulder and Pain Relief
  • Sizes: One Size - Chest circumference: 31-51 in
  • Colors: Black
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Elastic straps and Velcro
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Strong adjustable straps
  • Very good elasticity
  • Sports use
  • Gel pad not included
  • Only one size
The Anoopsyche shoulder pad has five adjustable Velcro straps that allow adjustment of chest circumference, arm circumference and shoulder pressure. Our shoulder strap is suitable for both men and women. And it is available for both right and left shoulder. Shoulder pads Promotes circulation and relieves shoulder pain. These are stiff shoulders, dislocations, rheumatic pains, muscle or ligament tears, etc. Shoulder orthoses can provide support and stabilization. Protects against tears and accelerates wound healing.

Stable triangular pressure structure, increases or decreases pressure as needed. Can help stretch or relax muscles during sports activities. For example, basketball, tennis, golf, weightlifting, etc. Prevents damage caused by sports. The pressure cushion can hold ice packs or hot water, relieve swelling or maintain warmth. The shoulder pad is made of high quality neoprene. It is stretchy, elastic, breathable and lightweight. The thin material can be worn under clothes and is not noticeable. Clean and odorless. The Anoopsyche shoulder pad has ventilation holes on the inside to promote blood circulation.

Suptrust - Recovery Shoulder Brace Unisex with Adjustable Fit Sleeve Wrap
  • Sizes: One Size - Shoulder: 15-20 in
  • Colors: Dark Black
  • Material: Neoprene
  • Closure type: Hook & Loop, Buckle
  • Hot/cold pad: No
  • Sports use
  • Strong adjustable straps
  • Very good elasticity
  • Quality material
  • Gel pad not included
  • Only one size
The SupTrust shoulder splint stabilizes the shoulder by promoting healing through compression. This supports injured muscles and protects the shoulder from further injury by restricting movement. You can enjoy these benefits throughout the day thanks to its breathable and unobtrusive design.

Thanks to the innovative universal design, it can be worn by both men and women on the right or left shoulder. Wearing the shoulder brace has never been easier. The stabilizing splint has a pocket for warm or cold packs (not included), which can be adjusted to the desired compression using the Velcro straps. The inner pocket can be used for cold rotator cuff therapy with ice packs.

Video: Shoulder joint anatomy

Types of shoulder braces you should know about

What are the most common shoulder injuries in football?

Shoulder injuries are becoming more and more common, especially in football, since it is a contact sport in which you exert a lot of effort while running, jogging and pushing the opponent. During these training sessions it is important to perform strength, endurance and speed exercises as the risk of injury is higher and lower level players are much more affected due to their inexperience.

However, the following section will explain the most common injuries in football, defining the conditions and detailing how they occur or could occur in this high-risk shoulder sport.

Fracture of shoulder

This is a fracture of the bone that runs horizontally from the sternum to the shoulder blade. The clavicle's job is to keep us upright to prevent poor posture, which can cause discomfort during this activity. This fracture can be caused by a very hard fall with an outstretched arm or by a heavy load on the shoulder.

Symptoms include immobility of the affected shoulder or arm, severe pain, bruising, and large or small skin bumps in the area. As a result, this type of injury is common in sports such as football. It occurs when the arm is suddenly jabbed and the arm is locked with the opponent, damaging the joint by excessive resistance to stop the opposing team by exerting greater force.

Bursitis

Bursitis is an impairment of the joint sacs. This is a sac that contains the fluid that lubricates the bones to facilitate joint flexion. It is caused by an excess of activity. Usually, this condition occurs in the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee, as these areas are more prone to bursitis.

It occurs in football players because sudden collisions or hits overload the shoulders because the greatest force is applied to this joint during an attack. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, warmth, redness and tenderness when the joint is moving or at rest.

Rotator cuff tears

The rotator cuff consists of a group of four muscles, the supraspinatus, subscapularis, teres major and infraspinatus, which provide precision, mobility and stability to the joints. The ligaments can be partially or completely torn, which means that the ligaments that connect them are out of alignment and constantly suffer from this condition.

Pain and immobility in the shoulder are signs of an injury, which is a major problem in football due to the high load in training and games. In this contact sport, there are two reasons for this: trauma from a sudden fall on the arm, which causes a shock of tension in the tendons, and finally, the years of practice of this discipline, which can lead to wear and tear of the ligaments (torn ligaments).

Dislocation of the shoulder

The shoulder is composed of three bones: the clavicle, the scapula and the humerus. The injury occurs when the humerus (in the form of a small ball) sits in the scapula and slips out of position due to a blow or stretch. Dislocations can be partial, when the ball is outside the socket, or total, when the ball has completely dislodged from its original position.

This injury occurs during football practice when a violent tackle is made. In short, it is the shoulders that are responsible for stopping or holding up the opponent when he uses more force than necessary, resulting in a severe dislocation and rendering this joint immobile. It is important to know the precision points in order not to perform unnecessary movements that would damage your resistance.

Frozen shoulder

This is a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the ligaments that connect the shoulder muscle. It is essentially a severe immobility that is usually mistaken for tendonitis or osteoarthritis. It should be noted that healing is slow and improves or disappears within about the first or third year of the condition. The main symptom is pain, followed by limited lateral or circular movement, with the joint remaining static.

This injury occurs in football when the player runs to protect the ball and is tackled by another player who abruptly bumps the shoulder. Since it is a contact sport where many joints are injured whether we like it or not, the use of shoulder braces is essential in any training to avoid future problems.

Buying guide: Tips on how to buy the best shoulder brace for football

football is a sport that puts your physical well-being at risk, as your shoulders are exposed to impacts every time you practice or play. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the proper use of clothing, the most important being the sports shoulder braces .

Depending on its function

  • Shoulder braces for pain relief: the shoulder is a delicate part of the human body that can be easily injured, causing constant stinging and pain that prevents mobilization. In football, shoulder braces are necessary to maintain the health of the joint and ensure the stability of the rotator cuff during sports activities.
  • Shoulder braces to relax the muscle: Their design allows pressure to be applied during exercise, allowing the muscle fiber to adjust to its original position without causing tears or bruising. This garment has a relaxing effect as it relieves all tension in the shoulders, strengthening the shoulders and increasing athletic performance.
  • For better blood circulation: compressive epaulettes have a stabilizing effect, provide strength and elasticity, keep muscle tissue warm, contribute to better blood circulation and prevent blood clots. Since football is a contact sport, bruising can occur in this area, which can be detrimental to health and lead to serious illness. This can be avoided by improving circulation with these garments.
  • Warming shoulder supports: with their cushion-like structure, they keep warm, cold or vibrating temperatures that keep muscles, tendons and ligaments at rest. The advantage of this shoulder support is that it retains heat while playing football, allowing steam ventilation. It is very comfortable and easy to wear and has an anti-inflammatory effect during heavy hits, which helps the player feel safe and confident in every game.
  • Compression shoulder sleeves: the compression they exert is one of the main benefits of sports shoulder braces, as they have a therapeutic effect by compressing the joint, improving blood circulation, relieving pain, reducing inflammation and more. It is the main product used by great football players.

Material of manufacture

Before buying a sportswear, it is important to know what materials it is made of, as there are always questions about quality, compression, breathability and much more. Therefore, we will explain some of the most common materials used in the manufacture of sports shoulder braces, so you can make the right choice.

  • Neoprene, a kind of synthetic rubber, provides sufficient support, is flexible and durable, but not breathable. Therefore, it is used in varying proportions along with other materials such as nylon, which, in addition to some of these properties, absorbs moisture and is immune to moths and lint.
  • Elastane or spandex is not used as the main fiber, but in combination with other materials it creates an ideal garment that is absolutely resistant and durable, because its main advantage is its elasticity: you can stretch it as much as you want and it will always keep its original state, adapting to the shoulder of the athlete.

Type of support

The closure is a very important feature, especially for football players who, since it is a sport with sudden and violent movements, can cause the mobility of the garment, being so harmful because the shoulder support would not have the expected effect and also expose the joint to injury. To avoid this type of accident, it is advisable to use materials that provide additional support.

  • Velcro closure: it stays tight, depending on the closure you want. It has adhesive strips that act as a movement stabilizer without shifting or causing discomfort. This type of closure is commonly used for compression garments because of its convenience and versatility.
  • Neoprene: A material characterized by its flexibility due to its chemical properties, allowing the garment to fit easily to the shoulders. It provides the natural support typical of neoprene, which is why it is widely used in the manufacture of sports shoulder sleeve.

Size

Most shoulder braces fit the body, either through the fabric or the support material, which is called "one size fits all". However, there are those who prefer a garment that conforms to the body and puts the appropriate pressure on their joint. In these cases, you will need to determine your size by measuring the distance from one shoulder to the other, as well as the thickness of your arm.

Design

Fashion is not only observed on the catwalks or perhaps on the streets, but athletes, especially professional athletes, also set trends in clothing and style, getting the imitation of many fans who find themselves in them. football players are no exception, and many maintain their public image. So, the sports shoulder sleeve provides superficial comfort without sacrificing its functionality

The variety of colors, models and shapes currently available on the world market makes it easy to find the right garment for your taste and personality. Whether you want to cover one or both shoulders, whether you want a massage effect or a more customized compression, you can get it thanks to its variety and versatility, always thinking about the protection of the athlete without worrying about his external image.

Price

Just as there are a variety of models, functions and materials, the price also varies according to the features mentioned above, since each "extra" accessory increases the cost of the garment. Buying a very cheap sports shoulder brace increases the risk of buying an inferior product, as the quality of the materials and the anatomical design increase the price of the product as well as its final quality.

Do compression shoulder sleeves for football really work?

Compression shoulder sleeve are always a very useful garment for all athletes, especially for football players, as they are twice as likely to be at risk in this area of the body than in other sports. Their use can mean the continuation of a professional career, since a serious shoulder injury would result in exclusion from the game.

These garments provide the protection you need in any game, thanks to the materials used to ensure sufficient stability of the joint, preventing it from breaking or detaching, despite the jerky movements characteristic of football. In addition, their compression effect provides a therapy that promotes blood circulation and relieves pain, swelling and other discomfort.

Undoubtedly, compression shoulder braces represent a novelty in shoulder therapy, as they enable fast recovery and even better athletic performance without the need for medication, thus enabling the football player's daily development.

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