Clavicle splints are designed to speed up the healing process for those who have had clavicle fractures as they provide support and aid to posture allowing maximum healing. However, there are various shoulder injuries that can use these braces and splints. From broken collar bone to dislocated and frozen shoulder, rotator calf injury/tendonitis, shoulder bursitis and shoulder separation, splints are generally worn to offer support and aid to the shoulder in an attempt to relieve the pain and keep the shoulder in proper posture for healing. The different types of splints are therefore categorized according to the target area.
Broken or fractured collar bone (clavicle) is quite a popular injury among both adults and children. It is a condition that will render the arm immobile just as soon as you suffer the fracture. The clavicle is attached to your breast bone in the inside and the shoulder complex to the outside. A broken clavicle is usually a result of falling on an outstretched hand as the force is immediately transmitted upwards fracturing the collar bone. When this happens, varying degrees of pain and bruising can be seen and the patients need immediate treatment. Blows to the clavicle may also result in fractures. Patients often resort to holding their arm immobile to relieve the pain until the fracture heals. Fortunately, the clavicle has a high capacity to heal and one can quickly get back to normal using clavicle splints or braces. These are medical devices fit on the shoulder, arm and back of patients who have suffered clavicle fractures. In serious cases, treatment will involve surgery with screws although most fractures heal without any surgery.
What types of clavicle splints exist?
Your Orthopaedic consultant will recommend the best splint according to their examination and analysis of your condition. Most splints are designed for one hand to limit motion range and prevent the shoulder from bending of falling to the wrong direction when healing.
Clavicle splints are more like back braces only that they are used to treat and remedy shoulder and clavicle pain rather than lower back. As medical devices, they are only necessary if you are a patient. Those who have suffered accidents and injuries that resulted in fracture or damaging of the collar bone and shoulder can benefit from splints in their recuperation. The splints are often given alongside a physical exercise therapy that is intended to help the patient fully recover their pre-injury abilities and motion ranges. If you have suffered one or more of the following, you probably need a clavicle splints;
Post surgery patients may also be given splints to help them heal faster and better. The device is measured and designed by your orthotist for custom fit.
Buying considerations
Since falls, accidents and injuries are very common, splints and braces are quite popular medical devices. You can find custom designed splints as well as general purpose devices that can be worn to relieve pain. However, it is highly advisable to only use clavicle splints from your orthotist. They will examine your injury and healing requirements, and determine the best splint to use. What’s more, custom fit options are designed specifically for your condition to relieve pain without compromising the healing process. Nonetheless, not all offers you get will meet your needs. Some physicians will also simply recommend a few top brands. It is therefore important to carefully review your options before spending money of clavicle splints and braces. Some of the things to look at include the following;
When looking for clavicle splints and braces, matters of comfort, effectiveness and convenience should be your priority. Follow all the use and maintenance instructions from your orthotist for best results and quick recovery. You should also have their contact in ace of any new development like increased pain. Choosing custom design splints will definitely cost you more than buying random general purpose braces. Nonetheless, it will give you better aid and posture support for fast clavicle fracture healing.
Your orthotist will give the use and maintenance directions including how to wear, remove, clean and store your splints. You should only buy splints after full medical checkup especially since accidents can cause internal damages. Only after your doctor confirms it as a less serious clavicle injury should you go in search of splints. Clavicle braces are quite basic and easy to wear and maintain. Make sure you find the right material and comfort particularly if you have sensitive skin. It may seem a little uncomfortable the first time you wear it but it will soon heal your shoulder and collar bone.