A cervical collar, also known as a neck collar or neck brace, is a soft, squishy collar used to provide spine and neck support and limit the movement of the head after injury. It is primarily advisable to wear it around the neck after neck surgery or any other damage due to an accident.
The main goal of a cervical collar is to provide neck support and minimise the motion in the cervical spine. It is also beneficial for treating chronic neck pain caused by acute trauma, such as a car accident.
The neck support should be worn by the patient as prescribed by the doctor, and it may be for a few hours or days. It keeps reminding the patients that there is a neck injury and that they should limit their motion for faster recovery.
Types & Uses of Cervical Collar for Neck Support
In general, collars come in three types: soft collars, rigid collars, and sports collars.
-
Soft Collar
It comes in a wraparound, adjustable form that covers the patient’s neck and jaw. Generally, it is made of thick foam rubber, polyethene, or an inflatable cuff covered with cotton. It easily fits around the neck and limits side-to-side movement, allowing a normal range of motion. It is generally prescribed by the physician if the patient has mild to moderate neck pain. It helps provide support for chronic neck pain, especially for older people.
-
Rigid Collar
These are made of a plexiglass or plastic shell over a foam or vinyl core. They are also easy to wear and available in various sizes, according to the user. Some of its common types are the Aspen, Malibu, Philadelphia, and Miami J collars. It can also provide chin support, limiting neck movement to a greater extent than soft collars. They can easily be removed and washed to maintain cleanliness. A rigid collar is used after surgery or severe trauma when all directions of neck movement must be restricted. It extends from the jaw to the collarbone and should be used by the patient as advised by the medical practitioner.
-
Sport Collar
These collars represent a specialised type of hard or rigid collar, specially designed for riders or high-speed drivers. ATV and racecar riders prefer a sport collar because it protects the neck from injury. During high-impact driving, when the driver suddenly stops the car or meets with an accident, a severe neck injury can be caused. Therefore, it is specially designed to prevent neck damage and save lives.
Other than neck pain, many people suffer from acute back pain due to muscle injuries. It may happen due to heavy weightlifting or stretching the muscles too much. Therefore, to support the lumbar portion of the spine and reduce excessive stress on it, a lumbar belt is used.
Conclusion
If you are suffering from chronic neck or back pain, buy a neck support or lumbar belt from the extensive collection at Vissconext and stay pain-free.
