KT Tape for Pediatric Clavicle Fractures

Clavicle fractures in children are mostly managed non-operatively since they have an overall high union rate (95%) and a "good" functional outcome following nonoperative treatment. However, the downside of such a conservative approach is that patients have to live with pain and disability until the fracture heals. To minimize this, fractures are usually immobilized with a sling. There have been no studies looking at clavicle fractures treated with kinesiology (elastic) tape. No adverse effects (skin irritation, redness, etc.) are observed with the application of this tape. Elastic tape has previously been examined regarding muscular advantages rather than for healing fractures. Since this tape should immobilize fractures better than a sling, patients should experience less pain and disability associated with their fracture.