An evaluation of shoulder external rotation braces.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate 4 commercially available shoulder external rotation braces to determine their ability to achieve and maintain shoulder external rotation. In addition, for each brace, we collected patient-derived data on comfort level, ease of application, and ease of performing activities of daily living during brace wear.


METHODS
Four commercially available shoulder external rotation braces were evaluated for their ability to achieve and maintain external rotation in 12 healthy subjects.


RESULTS
Significant differences were noted between braces in their ability to achieve and maintain shoulder external rotation, as well as in their comfort ratings.


CONCLUSIONS
We have shown that the commercially available shoulder external rotation braces evaluated in this study vary in (1) ability to achieve and maintain a desired position of external rotation of the shoulder, and (2) comfort ratings.


CONCLUSIONS
Selection of an external rotation brace should involve consideration of the device's performance and comfort profile.
Sullivan
Lawrence G
LG
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan Hospitals and Clinics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Bailie
Raymond
R
Weiss
Nicole
N
Miller
Bruce S
BS
D001915:Braces; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012783:Shoulder Dislocation / Q000628:therapy; D012785:Shoulder Joint