Cervical discomfort can happen to anyone. The discomfort may result from multiple reasons. It could be from a sudden accident. At times, your body posture can also trigger it. The neck is a complex part of your body. It moves in many ways. This makes it easy to hurt. A neck support for relief is what you use to manage this discomfort. It helps you get better. It also keeps you safe from new pain.
Most of us call this support a neck collar or a cervical collar. These terms are usually regarded as one. However, there are several differences between the two. Despite the fact that they help manage neck pain, there are specific scenarios where they are used.
In this blog, we will uncover the difference between a neck collar and a cervical collar.
Understanding the Neck Collar
This type of cervical support is basically what we call a travel neck collar. We use this type of neck support usually when travelling. Unlike a cervical collar, this collar is very soft.
- Design: It is usually U-shaped or wraparound. It is meant to be positioned securely around the back of the neck. Also, it offers cushioning on the sides.
- Materials: Mostly made from memory foam, fibre-filled, or inflatable. This is what makes it easy to pack.
- Purpose: The main purpose is to fill the space between the neck and the seat. It prevents the head from moving forward and to the side. Such motions tend to trigger stiffness and pain.
- Features: Has an adjustable cord or snap button at the front. This helps to hold it in place and has a removable, washable cover for hygiene.
Types of Travel Neck Collars
Classic U-Shaped Collar:
The most popular type of neck collar, which is open in the front. It provides support to the back and sides.
Wraparound/Soft Collar:
Often made of memory foam. It wraps fully around the neck like a scarf. It offers 360-degree support, which is better for a rhythmic up-and-down or side-to-side motion of the head.
Benefits of Neck Collars
- Support: A neck collar holds your head. This limits continuous strain and weight application to the neck.
- Reduced Stiffness: It keeps the cervical spine aligned while sleeping upright.
- Enhanced Sleep: The travel neck collar increases comfort in cramped seats. For instance, in planes, buses and cars. It helps travelers avoid resting their necks on their hands which can cause neck pain.
- Convenience and Portability: Neck collars are mostly small and lightweight. You can carry them anywhere you travel. They easily fit in without making your luggage heavy.
- Versatility: Despite planes, it can be used for car rides and train journeys. You may choose to use it even for office naps.
- Easy Maintenance: The neck collar can be washed easily. It has removable and washable covers.
When to Use a Neck Collar
You can not just use this neck support for any kind of neck discomfort. First, understand what is causing the pain and its intensity. Here’s when you should use a neck collar.
- Travelling: It is essential for long flights and train/car journeys. Use to prevent stiffness and reduce strain.
- Sleeping in Transit: Provides stability for your head and neck when sleeping. It prevents the head from falling forward.
- Existing Neck Pain/Conditions: Necessary for individuals with chronic neck issues or pain.
- Posture Support: Can be used to maintain posture. It could be while working on a laptop, reading, or sitting in an uncomfortable chair at home.
Understanding the Cervical Collar
Some of us call this a neck brace. This is an orthopedic device that is meant for neck support. It is mostly used to support the neck and spine and limit head movement after an injury. Its main function is to prevent you from moving your head and neck until the injury is healed.
Types of Cervical Collars
Cervical collars offer a level of support that is different from regular neck collars.
1. Soft Collar
They are made of foam rubber, polyethene, and inflatable cuffs at times. They fit around the neck. These collars allow for some range of movement, mostly forward and backwards. They do this while limiting side-to-side movement.
Note: Soft collars are used in the rehabilitation of whiplash. They alleviate neck sprains and provide support for chronic neck pain especially in older people.
2. Rigid Collar
These collars are made of a plastic shell over a foam or vinyl core. They are the most restrictive among all neck collars. They are used to stop almost all movement of the neck in any direction.
Note: A rigid collar is used after surgery. It is worn after severe trauma. This could be a cervical fracture, where healing will take a long time.
When to Use a Cervical Collar
- Trauma: Worn after car accidents, falls, and sports injuries to stabilize the neck.
- Post-Surgery: Worn to limit rotation and movement during healing after cervical spine surgeries.
- Disc Herniation: To relieve pressure and allow irritated nerves to heal.
- Chronic Pain Management: Used during acute flare-ups of chronic conditions (e.g., cervical spondylosis).
Wrapping Up
Neck discomfort is the last thing you would want to live with. That is why neck support aids exist. They are meant to protect the neck from injury and to manage discomfort before it becomes chronic.
- Choose a neck collar when travelling and when you want to sleep while sitting. It is ideal for managing minor neck stiffness and pain.
- Your doctor will advise a cervical collar for neck fractures, severe pain, and post-surgery care.
Consult your doctor to determine which one to use between a neck collar and a cervical collar. This shouldn’t be guesswork. The wrong neck support will eventually be ineffective. Consider prioritising the right neck support for your main objective. It starts with asking yourself questions. Why is my neck hurting? Is it because of my posture, strain, or injury? How intense is this pain? Is it subsiding after you have travelled, or is it continuous? With the right care, you can maintain a healthy and strong neck for years to come.
