Foam Cervical Collar With Vinyl Strap

Contoured foam design with adjustable vinyl strap provides additional support. This cervical collar is more restrictive than the soft collar, and should be used for more acute injuries where stabilization is necessary. Vinyl strap also increases circulation and warmth.

Sizes: 24" (61cm) total length. Fits 15 1/2" (39cm) to 23 1/2" (60cm) neck.

Conditions

• Whiplash; Medical Subluxation (dislocation); Other.

Cervical Collar Benefit Options

• Not used for mechanical support.
• Feels more stable and is a postural reminder due to proprioception  (Sensory feedback).
• Provides more support and is more restrictive than plain foam collar.
• Most collar lengths are universally sized.  Generally 24” in length and fits 15 ½ to 23 ½” neck.  (Other sizes may be available)
• From 2” – 4 ½ “ in height (Others may be available)

Fitting Landmarks

• Occiput
• Chin
• Top of shoulders closest to the neck
• Collar bones
• Sternal Notch (Notch between collar bones where ribcage starts).

Measurement

• Snug Fit Measurement:  Devices are sized at a compressed fit.
  • Measuring loose vs. skin tight can result in incorrect measurement.
• Measurement taken as a neck circumference
• Tip of chin to Sternal Notch (Notch between collar bones where ribcage starts) for appropriate height.
• Measure in a neutral posture (head level & straight).
• Can be dictated by support used.

Fitting

• Choose best device for injury.
• On Some cervical supports, the idea is to keep tension on bony part of shoulder structure.
• Fit from the front under the chin.
• Center the cutout of the collar at the chin area.
• Apply the device gently around to the back of the neck.
• If you can tuck chin down into the collar, then the device has not been applied with correct tightness in the fitting.
• Re-apply tension to appropriate tightness.
• Be careful not to “jut” chin out into forward position to help you fit the collar. 
• Looking for symmetry (equal alignment)  of the collar
• Avoid pressure points and avoid collar rubbing and irritating ear lobes

Post Fitting

• Check fitting through function.
• Make sure Collar has been fitted with appropriate strap tightness.
• Collar should not create pressure points or irritate lobes of the ear.
• Fit from the front under the chin.
• Center the cutout of the collar at the chin area.
• Apply the device gently around to the back of the neck.
• Finish with appropriate tightness to the application of the collar.
•  If the chin can be tucked down into the collar, then the device has not been applied with correct tightness in the fitting.
• Re-apply tension to appropriate tightness.
• Do not “jut” chin out into forward position to help you fit the collar. 

Depending on your condition, the application of the device  may need to be done by a secondary care-taker or significant other.