Is it wise to use a shoulder brace to alleviate shoulder pain? My mum has been told to do exercises including pushing back and straightening her shoulders and she has bought a brace to hold her shoulders back but I'm wondering if this could do more harm than good?

If it is a medically approved shoulder brace and doesn't cause her discomfort, then I see no harm. In fact, if her shoulder pain is caused by her slouching, it will probably be beneficial. If she has any doubts, she should check with her physiotherapist.

I tried one of these and couldn't get on with it at all. I didn't have shoulder pain, just a bit of a rounded shoulder problem. I hated wearing it and found it painful. Maybe I bought the wrong type?

If your mum's shoulder hurts that bad, she needs to go see a doctor or a physical therapist. Some doctors might suggest to do some exercises that wouldn't help so I suggest consulting a specialist. She can continue using her shoulder brace as it provides a great support

She has fibromyalgia and has had cortisone injections but they won't give her any more and have referred her to a physio, but the pain from the exercises is almost more than she can bear. She says the brace is helping, but thanks for everyone's input.