Health Home > Back Pain > Cervical collars

Cervical collars

Healthwise
By Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH

Did you find this helpful?

Be the first to rate!
Not yet rated

Cervical (neck) collars are sometimes used to support the neck for a short time. They may be soft and made from felt, foam, or rubber, or they may be hard and made from plastic. Soft collars allow some movement of the neck.

Cervical collars are of limited value in neck treatment. They:

  • Can occasionally be helpful after a sprain (for a brief period) and are sometimes used after surgery.
  • Should not be worn instead of correcting poor workplace design.

Credits

Author Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last Updated August 21, 2008
Last Updated: 08/21/2008