Overview
Cervical collar for neck support
A cervical collar (orthosis) is designed to control your head and neck movement. It is usually made from soft foam or plastic.
How to put on your collar
1. Open the collar fully.
2. Place the chin section under your chin, so that the collar rests between your chin and chest.
3. Pull the sides of the collar around your neck, so that the 2 ends come together.
4. Secure the Velcro™ strap across the ends of the collar.
5. Make sure that the collar is snug, but does not get in the way of your breathing. If this happens, remove the collar, and put it back on a bit looser.
When to wear your collar
Your orthotist will tell you when to wear your collar. Some people might only need to wear it during the day.
Maintaining your collar
At some point your collar will need some repairs. The orthotics department will arrange these repairs for you. If you require any spare pads or liners, please contact the orthotics department.
Do not try to make any changes or repairs to the collar yourself.
Looking after your collar
Do
- follow the breaking-in schedule provided by your orthotist
- wear the collar as instructed by your orthotist
- check your skin after wearing your collar. If it is difficult to do this yourself, you can use a mirror, or ask someone to check for you
- clean the collar with a sponge dipped in warm, soapy water, and towel dry
- check the collar regularly for signs of wear, such as worn-out Velcro straps or foam material, or cracked plastic
Don't
- do not place your collar near sources of heat, or extreme cold
- do not attempt to adjust or modify your collar
- do not cut, file, or damage the collar
When to get help
Close-fitting collars can cause mild redness to the skin where pressure is applied. This is normal.
Contact the orthotics service as soon as possible if:
- you notice skin redness that lasts longer than 30 minutes. This can be harder to see on brown or black skin
- you notice any breaks in your skin, such as sores or blisters
- you have any pain, irritation or notice increased rubbing of the skin
Resource number: 4376/VER2
Last reviewed: August 2024
Next review due: August 2027
