Neck brace

Neck Brace

A neck brace, also known as a cervical collar, is a medical device used to support a person's neck. It is also applied by emergency personnel to those who have had traumatic head or neck injuries, and can be used to treat chronic medical conditions.

Types of Neck Braces

There are several types of neck braces, including:

• Soft Collars: These are made from foam and are typically used for non-traumatic injuries such as severe strains or sprains.
• Hard Collars: These are rigid and used for more serious injuries. They restrict movement more than soft collars.
• Philadelphia Collars: These are a type of hard collar that is split down the middle, allowing it to be adjusted to fit the patient's neck.
• Miami J Collars: These are similar to Philadelphia collars, but have additional features such as a larger trachea opening.

Uses

Neck braces are used in a variety of situations, including:

• Trauma: In the event of a traumatic injury, a neck brace can be used to immobilize the neck and prevent further injury.
• Surgery: Following certain types of surgery, a neck brace may be used to support the neck during recovery.
• Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as cervical radiculopathy or neck pain may be treated with a neck brace.

Risks and Complications

While neck braces can be beneficial, they also carry risks and potential complications. These can include skin irritation, difficulty swallowing, and decreased muscle tone due to prolonged use.

See Also

• Cervical vertebrae
• Cervical spondylosis
• Whiplash

Neck brace Resources
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