Hard cervical collar

A hard cervical collar is a supportive brace made of hard plastic with a soft inner lining that supports the neck. Movements of the head and neck are not possible with this type of collar.

When do you wear a hard cervical collar?

A hard cervical collar is worn for a fracture of one or more cervical vertebrae, instability of the neck, after an operation, or for (possible) damage to the neck immediately after an accident. It is then important for recovery, or to prevent further damage, that the neck does not move. The collar protects the neck, but also prevents damage to the spinal cord and the nerves. Paralysis of (parts of) the body is thus prevented.

What does a hard cervical collar do?

The collar ensures that the head and neck cannot move. A hard cervical collar provides rigidity and protection for the neck. The neck thus gets the chance to recover. Over time, the neck muscles and joints do become weaker due to wearing the collar. Usually the collar has to be worn 24 hours a day, including at night.

While wearing the hard cervical collar, driving a car, cycling, intensive sports and other heavy activities are prohibited.

The treating doctor determines how long the hard cervical collar must be worn. Sometimes it is helpful or even necessary to phase out wearing the collar. The neck is weakened and no longer used to supporting the head independently all day. After that, the mobility of the neck joints and the condition of the muscles can be slowly built up again.

For less serious conditions, a soft cervical collar can also be used. This provides less protection, still allows some movement and does not need to be worn all day.