An Improvement of a Zero-position Shoulder Brace

Abstract

Adjustment of a shoulder brace can be difficult, especially in internal and external rotations. In 1986, we developed the design of the shoulder brace, Mark 1, which could maintain the shoulder in the zeroposition, and have used this device in a rehabilitation after a rotator cuff repair. The Mark 1 differs from other braces with regard to two points. One is that the center of abduction is placed in front of the shoulder and the other is that the adjustor rotates the upper arm. However, there are still three problems with the Mark 1 brace; 1. An individual fitting and manufacture required.2. heavy.3. difficult to adjust the appropriate position of the shoulder. So, we designed a new shoulder brace, the Mark 2 which is adjustable, ready-made and lighter.
The Mark 2 shoulder brace can be adj usted easily from 30° to 150° at 10 degree units: Adduction and abduction limits can be set up in relation to each other, so the Mark 2 allows for a more flexible ROM. The axis of internal and external rotation can be put along the humerus with two parallel bars to the humerus. Compared with the Mark 1, the Mark 2 fits more comfortably and easily. However, the Mark 2 can not be lighter and be a ready-made product.