Bordier P, Lataste A, Orazio S, Papin J, Robert F, Bourenane G (January 2021). "Soft cervical collar in obstructive sleep apnoea: a pilot study". ERJ Open Research. 7 (1): 00431–2020. doi: 10.1183/23120541.00431-2020. PMC 7950809. PMID 33732743. To get out of bed, it is recommended that you roll onto one side, bring your legs to the edge of the bed, and push up with your arms. How do I shower and wash my hair whilst wearing the collar?

Bathing and showering are not permitted unless you are given special instruction from your consultant. Thomas-Type collar’s material is manufactured from vinyl plastic and has several small holes to give ventilation. This type ofbrace is comparable to the soft collar but provides more rigid support because of its material.

We are smoke-free

You should remove the collar once a day to ensure you skin is clean, dry and there are no areas of irritation.

It is safe to shower during the time that you are advised to wear the collar, but this should be done with adequate precautions in place to avoid falls, such as:

Cleaning Your Collar

It can be fitted in either lying or sitting. The position which is most appropriate will be advised by the issuing team. How long will I need it for?

Colachis SC et al. Cervical spine motion in normal women: radiographic study of effect of cervical collars. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 1973; 58(7): 865-871. Some children with less severe injuries may only need to wear the hard collar for comfort, as it often provides pain relief following soft tissue injuries.

Follow-up

Returning to work will depend very much upon the individual and the type of work you do. It is important that you ask your surgeon when it is safe to return to work. Lifting Note the position of the velcro straps (you could take a photo to help with this) at each side, prior to the assistant removing them Limiting the movement of the spine through wearing a spinal brace helps the healing process. It may also help to prevent further injury or damage and can help to minimise discomfort. Can there be complications with wearing a spinal brace? Mobbs RJ et al. Effect of cervical hard collar on intracranial pressure after head injury. ANZ Journal of surgery. 2002; 72: 389-391.