Understanding Clavicular Fractures and the Importance of Clavicular Support

A clavicular fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is one of the most frequent types of bone fractures that affect people of all ages. The clavicle, a long and slender bone that connects the shoulder blade to the breastbone, plays a crucial role in supporting the shoulder and arm. When broken, it can cause significant discomfort and hinder mobility. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of clavicular fractures and how clavicular support devices can aid in recovery.

What is a Clavicular Fracture?

A clavicular fracture refers to a break in the collarbone, often caused by direct trauma or stress. The clavicle connects the shoulder to the torso, making it vulnerable to injury in various circumstances. Let’s take a closer look at the different causes of clavicular fractures:

1. Direct Impact: A direct blow to the collarbone, often seen in accidents or falls, can lead to fractures. This is particularly common in sports-related collisions or motor vehicle accidents.

2. Falls: Falling onto an outstretched arm or shoulder is a frequent cause of clavicle fractures. High-impact activities such as biking, skateboarding, and skiing are prime candidates for these types of injuries.

3. Sports Injuries: Contact sports like football, rugby, and hockey, where collisions are frequent, are common culprits of clavicular fractures. Even non-contact sports can result in injuries due to falls or other accidents.

4. Repetitive Stress: Athletes who engage in repetitive overhead motions—such as baseball pitchers, swimmers, or weightlifters—may be more prone to clavicular fractures over time.

5. Birth Trauma: During difficult childbirth, excessive force may be applied to the baby’s shoulders, resulting in a clavicle fracture. Fortunately, these fractures usually heal without complications.

6. Osteoporosis and Aging: People with osteoporosis or elderly individuals with weaker bones are more susceptible to fractures, even from minor trauma.

7. Motor Vehicle Accidents: The intense force from a motor vehicle collision can easily lead to clavicular fractures due to the impact on the shoulders and upper body.

How Clavicular Support Aids in Recovery

When a clavicular fracture occurs, it is crucial to stabilize the area to promote healing and prevent further injury. Clavicular support devices, such as clavicle braces or straps, play a vital role in this process by immobilizing the collarbone and providing much-needed support.

Key Features and Benefits of Clavicular Support

• Immobilization: The main purpose of clavicular support is to restrict movement in the collarbone area, preventing unnecessary strain and promoting proper healing.

• Pain Relief: By stabilizing the collarbone, clavicular supports help alleviate pain by minimizing shoulder movement and reducing the risk of exacerbating the injury.

• Posture Correction: These supports can improve posture by gently pulling the shoulders back and aligning the spine, which is especially beneficial for individuals with poor posture or shoulder slumping.

• Adjustable Fit: Most clavicular supports are designed with adjustable straps, providing a customized fit for individuals of varying sizes, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness.

• Lightweight and Breathable: Modern clavicular supports are made from lightweight, breathable materials that ensure comfort even with prolonged wear.

• Versatility: Clavicular supports can be worn discreetly under clothing, enabling individuals to go about their daily routines while receiving the necessary support for their injury.

Other Uses of Clavicular Support

In addition to aiding in the healing of clavicular fractures, clavicular supports offer several other benefits:

• Postural Support: These devices can be used to correct poor posture by pulling the shoulders back, thereby reducing strain on the neck and shoulders.

• Shoulder Instability: Individuals with shoulder instability may benefit from clavicular support, as it helps stabilize the shoulder joint and provides additional support to the collarbone.

• Shoulder Dislocations: After a shoulder dislocation or subluxation, clavicular supports limit excessive movement, helping to prevent further injury during the healing process.

• Rehabilitation: During recovery from shoulder injuries or surgeries, clavicular supports can offer protection while allowing for controlled movement and exercises to regain strength and flexibility.

• Sports Injury Prevention: Athletes who engage in high-impact sports may wear clavicular supports as a preventative measure to reduce the risk of clavicular fractures or other shoulder injuries.

• Chronic Shoulder Pain: For individuals with chronic shoulder pain due to overuse or musculoskeletal conditions, a clavicular support can provide relief by reducing strain on the shoulder complex.

A clavicular support collarbone brace is a medical device designed to support and stabilize the clavicle (collarbone) after an injury, fracture, or surgery. It's typically used to alleviate pain, promote proper healing, and prevent further damage to the bone and surrounding tissues.

Here are some key points about a clavicular support collarbone brace:

1. Purpose: It helps immobilize the collarbone area, preventing movement that might hinder healing or worsen the injury.

2. Material: Most braces are made of lightweight, breathable materials like neoprene, elastic fabric, or foam, offering comfort while still providing necessary support.

3. Design: The brace typically features straps or a figure-eight design that wraps around the shoulders and chest, securing the clavicle in a fixed position. This design helps align the bones and prevent excess movement during healing.

4. Benefits:

   • • Reduces pain and discomfort by preventing unnecessary movement of the collarbone.
     • Helps speed up recovery by maintaining proper alignment.
     • Offers gentle compression that can reduce swelling.

    

If you're considering a clavicular brace, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the right fit and usage for your specific injury or condition. Would you like any help finding where to purchase one. 

To purchase a collar bone brace, you can visit their website at emerdepot.com and search for "collar bone brace" in their product catalog. Alternatively, you can visit their physical store during operating hours to make a purchase.

EmerDepot also offers emergency pickup and delivery services for customers in the Greater Toronto Area. For orders over $500, emergency pickup is free; for orders below $500, there's a $39.99 fee. Immediate delivery is available for $49.99. 

Conclusion

Clavicular fractures are common injuries that can affect anyone, from athletes to older adults. Fortunately, clavicular support devices provide essential stabilization and pain relief during the healing process. Whether recovering from a fracture, improving posture, or preventing future injuries, these supports offer valuable benefits for shoulder health. If you’ve experienced a clavicular fracture or struggle with shoulder instability, consult with a healthcare provider to determine if a clavicular support could be right for you.