Cervical Collar: Enhanced Collar Neck Brace Support
Cervical collars are also used therapeutically to help realign the spinal cord and relieve pain, although they are usually not worn for long periods of time.Another use of the cervical collar is for strains, sprains, or whiplash. If pain is persistent, the collar might be required to remain attached to help in the healing process. A person may also need a cervical collar, or may require a halo fixation device to support the neck during recovery after surgery such as cervical spinal fusion.
Causes
Wearing a cervical collar is usually prescribed for neck injuries or conditions like cervical spondylosis, neck strain, whiplash, or spinal stenosis. The possible diagnosis includes cervical injury, muscle strain, ligament sprain, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine.
Treatment Plan
Rest: Make sure to restrict neck movements and avoid strenuous activities.
Cervical collar: Wear the cervical collar as prescribed by the healthcare professional for the recommended duration.
Physical therapy: Engage in physiotherapy sessions to improve neck strength and flexibility.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may be prescribed for pain and inflammation.
Heat or ice therapy: Apply heat or ice packs as advised by the healthcare provider to alleviate discomfort.
Tips
Follow-up with your healthcare provider as instructed, usually within 1-2 weeks, to monitor the progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Cervical immobilization in trauma patients: soft collars better than rigid collars? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Introduction: Rigid cervical spine following trauma immobilization is recommended to reduce neurological disability and provide spinal stability. Soft collars have been proposed as a good alternative because of the complications related to rigid collars. The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review on soft and rigid collars in the prehospital management of cervical trauma.
Method: A systematic review was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. Search terms were (immobilization) AND (collar) AND ((neck) OR (cervical)) to evaluate the range of motion (ROM) and evidence of clinical outcome for soft and rigid collars.
Results: A total of 18 studies met eligibility criteria including 2 clinical studies and 16 articles investigating the range of motion (ROM). Four hundred and ninety-six patients at a mean age of 32.5 years (SD 16.8) were included. Measurements were performed in a seated position in twelve studies. Eight articles reported the ROM without a collar, 7 with a soft collar, and 15 with a rigid collar. There was no significant difference in flexion/extension, bending and rotation following immobilization with soft collars compared to no collar. Rigid collars provided significantly higher stability compared to no collar (p < 0.005) and to soft collars in flexion/extension and rotation movements (p < 0.05). The retrospective clinical studies showed no significant differences in secondary spinal cord injuries for soft collar (0.5%) and for rigid collar (1.1%). One study, comparing immobilization without a collar compared to that with a rigid collar, found a significant difference in neurologic deficiency and supraclavicular nerve lesion.
Conclusion: Although rigid collars provide significant higher stability to no collar and to soft collars in flexion/ extension and rotation movements, clinical studies could not confirm a difference in neurological outcome.
Level of evidence: II, Systematic Review.
Keywords: Cervical; Immobilization; Neck; Neurology; Trauma.
© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
Use of cervical collar after whiplash injuries
bstract
Whiplash injuries, also known as neck sprains and strains, are currently some of the most common injuries of the cervical spine. Mechanism of injury is still controversial and current treatment methods do not provide satisfactory results. In this article we present QTF classification of related disorders, epidemiological data and treatment methods. We described basic principles of using a soft collar, goals and effects of collar use and potential complications ensuing from immobilization. Authors reviewed publications comparing the effects of collar use with other methods of treatment and physiotherapy following whiplash injury.
Cervical radiculopathy: nonoperative management of neck pain and radicular symptoms
Abstract
Cervical radiculopathy is a disease process marked by nerve compression from herniated disk material or arthritic bone spurs. This impingement typically produces neck and radiating arm pain or numbness, sensory deficits, or motor dysfunction in the neck and upper extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomographic myelography can confirm neurologic compression. The overall prognosis of persons with cervical radiculopathy is favorable. Most patients improve over time with a focused, nonoperative treatment course. There is little high-quality evidence on the best nonoperative therapy for cervical radiculopathy. Cervical collars may be used for a short period of immobilization, and traction may temporarily decompress nerve impingement. Medications may help alleviate pain and neuropathic symptoms. Physical therapy and manipulation may improve neck discomfort, and selective nerve blocks target nerve root pain. Although the effectiveness of individual treatments is controversial, a multimodal approach may benefit patients with cervical radiculopathy and associated neck pain.
(c) 2010 American Academy of Family Physicians.
Collar With Replacement Pad Set
The komzer Cervical Collar is a two-piece polyethylene design that offers excellent patient comfort and is easily adjusted with tabs. It features anterior and posterior flex tabs on the front and back panels, providing improved rigidity and durability. The collar comes with a second set of liners/replacement pad set, ensuring you always have a fresh set.
Size and Fit
The komzer Cervical Collar is available in different sizes, including small, medium, and large, to ensure proper fit and maximum support. Please refer to our size chart to select the appropriate size.
Material and Quality
The collar is made of high-quality polyethylene, which is lightweight and durable, ensuring maximum support and comfort. The cotton-lined pads provide proper skin care by reducing contact points in the occipital area, ensuring maximum patient comfort.
Best Used For
Motion control of cervical spine flexion, extension, and rotation to promote patient recovery.
Treatment of cervical fractures and subluxations.
Relief of pain and discomfort associated with neck injuries or surgeries.
Support during postoperative rehabilitation.
Stabilization of the cervical spine.
The CERVICAL COLLAR products are well-received for providing back support and pain relief. Users appreciate the braces for their ability to stabilize the lower back, with one customer on komzer specifically noting the significant support the brace offered, enabling her to walk comfortably. It's important for the brace to be properly fitted by a medical professional to avoid complications such as skin irritation or circulation issues. For detailed product reviews and experiences, it's recommended to visit websites like komzer, which offer customer feedback on various CERVICAL COLLAR products.
KIDSLINE CERVICAL COLLAR - SOFT FOAM
The Kids foam cervical collar acts as a reminder against making sudden, painful neck movements. Kids is komzer family of Pediatric and Youth sized products. They are cut and assembled to follow the same anatomically correct profile as our popular adult versions, but are "right sized" to fit a smaller frame.
INDICATIONS LISTED BELOW
• Anatomically contoured design provides gentle support
• Soft density foam – 1.5" thick – with breathable stockinette cover
• Contact closure fasteners permit quick and easy adjustment
• Especially convenient for wear when sleeping
• Latex free
COMMON CONDITIONS OF THE CERVICAL SPINE
Osteoarthritis (Spondylosis)
Cervical osteoarthritis (OA) is also called cervical spondylosis. This involves changes to the bones, discs and joints of the neck as the result of normal aging. With osteoarthritis (OA) the flexible tissue (cartilage) that cushions the ends of bones wears down. Spurs or abnormal growths on the bones can cause the interior of the spinal column to narrow, causing neck pain and stiffness. Treatments can include medication, physical therapy and the use of a cervical collar.
Herniated Disc
A herniated cervical disc is one of the most common causes of neck pain. Each disc iscomposed of a gel like interior substance that is surrounded by exterior fibrouscartilage that keeps the gel contained. If the exterior cartilage tears or splits, theinterior gel can protrude, or become herniated. This can cause neck pain, numbnessor tingling in the shoulder, or weakness in the hand or arm. Treatment methods caninclude rest, medication, physical therapy and the use of a cervical collar.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a non-medical term used to describe a hyperextension injury to the neck resulting from an indirect force, usually a rear-end automobile collision. The sudden acceleration of the struck vehicle throws the head backward, causing violent hyperextension of the neck. Pain from the injury to the cervical muscles is initially treated by placing the neck in a well fitting cervical collar, applying local heat treatments and administering pain medication.
THE ANATOMY OF THE CERVICAL SPINE
A. Atlas (C1 Vertebra)
B. Axis (C2 Vertebra)
C. C3 Vertebra
D. C4 Vertebra
E. C5 Vertebra
F. C6 Vertebra
G. C7 Vertebra
H. Facet Joint (connects each vertebra)
I. Cervical Disc