With Health Insurance: Copay or 10%-50% Coinsurance
Without Health Insurance: $15-$600+
A shoulder brace can be used for various injuries and conditions, including a clavicle fracture, a rotator cuff tear or a dislocated shoulder.
Typical costs:
For patients covered by health insurance, the typical out-of-pocket cost for a doctor-prescribed shoulder brace consists of a durable goods copay or coinsurance of 10%-50%. A knee brace typically is covered by health insurance if it is prescribed by a doctor.
For patients not covered by health insurance, a shoulder brace typically costs up to $30 or more for a clavicle splint for a fractured clavicle. For example, BraceShop.com charges about $15-$30 for a clavicle splint, while Allegro Medical Supplies charges[1] about $14-$30.
A shoulder brace typically costs $15-$600 or more, depending on the type, for a brace for frozen shoulder, a dislocated shoulder or a torn rotator cuff. For example, BraceShop.com charges about $25-$600 or more for a shoulder brace for adhesive capsulitis ("frozen shoulder"). BraceShop.com charges about $15-$600 or more for a brace for a torn rotator cuff. SOS Medical[2] charges about $20-$600 or more, depending on the brace. The cost for a basic sling-type shoulder immobilizer or shoulder support is on the low end, while a hinged brace that provides maximum support falls typically costs more.
For a clavicle fracture[3] , a doctor might recommend a sling or figure-eight brace, which criss-crosses across the back to immobilize the shoulder during healing.
For a rotator cuff injury[4] , a sling or brace might be prescribed to keep the shoulder still while it heals.
For shoulder dislocation[5] , a brace might be prescribed to offer support and limit motion.
In some cases, a doctor will recommend or prescribe an off-the-shelf brace, but in other cases, an orthotist[6] will evaluate, help to design and fit a patient with a brace.
Additional costs:
In some cases, such as after an injury or surgery, physical therapy might be required at a cost of about $50-$350 per session.
Discounts:
Drug stores and websites that sell braces sometimes offer coupons or special offers. For example, BraceShop.com has a savings club[7] that offers a 5% discount for signing up.
Shopping for a shoulder brace:
A family doctor typically would treat a minor injury, a sports medicine doctor might treat a sports-related injury and an orthopedic specialist might be required for a serious injury or surgery. The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery offers an orthopedic surgeon finder[8] by city, state or zip code.
In some cases, a patient may need to see an orthotist, a certified health professional who specializes in braces and other orthotics, to get evaluated and fitted for a brace. The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics offers an orthotist locator[9] by state.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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