Cervical collar

Cervical collars are plastic, foam, or plastazole neck braces that are used as an orthosis to keep the cervical vertebrae in the neutral position. These are used to hold the neck in position during extrication, treatment for whiplash, or other injuries involving the spine or neck. The neutral position is the position in which the head is held in the manner in which they appear with a human body lying supine with palms facing upward. When the head, neck, and spine is immobilized and held in the supine position, healing is able to flourish, as well as prevent further injuries to the neck, back, or spine. Cervical collars are used on an emergency or long term basis to prevent cervical flexion, extension, or rotation. They are often used for herniated discs, pinched nerves, fractures, muscle strains, luxation, torticollis, sprains (such as whiplash), trauma, or after an invasive procedure or injury.

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Cervical collars come in many sizes and shapes, with some being more restrictive than others. Many collars have their own shapes and effective immobilization, such as Philadelphia Cervical Collars and Miami-J. There are deviations from the traditional cervical collar, such as the H.A.L.O. Spinal Brace, or the SOMI (Sterno-Occipital Mandibular Immobilization) which are much bulkier and cover the body as well as the neck, and are only used in extreme injury cases.

Soft cervical collars

Soft cervical collars are foam, and are often used in treatment for minor injuries (such as whiplash), or in transition from a rigid cervical collar to no collar at all. These are the most common, and are often sold at pharmacies across the country. They restrict movement, but allow slight movement and are the most comfortable to wear. User compliance is also usually highest with these braces as well. Brands like Futuro and ACE make collars like these.

Rigid cervical collars

Rigid cervical collars are the standard cervical brace used in emergency rooms, major injuries, and surgical recoveries. They are rigid, heavily restrict movement, and are usually made of plastic or plastazole. Philadelphia, Aspen, or Miami-J Collars are examples of this type of collar.