Cervical and Cervical Thoracic Collars
Wearing Your Cervical Collar
Proper wearing of your collar will increase the
quality of your treatment. Below are a few general guidelines to
assist you with
your cervical collar
Philadelphia Collar 
The front section should overlap with the outside of the back section.
Aspen
Collar
When engaged the Patented Occipital Support Trap™
customizes the fit. 
Fitting for both collars is the same. Your chin should rest in the
chin cavity. The rigid support in the back should be placed directly
over your spine.
To ensure a comfortable fit each time you apply
your cervical collar, mark the position of the end of the Velcro
fasteners on the first
application. When reapplying, or if the collar loosens, tighten
to this mark. General Information
Purpose of Your Brace
Your brace was prescribed by your physician to support your head
and neck as you move around during your daily activities. Additional
support for your upper-back may be provided, depending on the style
of brace prescribed. Your doctor will tell you how long to wear
your device.
Cleaning Your Collar
Your plastic collar (excluding the liner, if applicable) should
be washed everyday using soap and water on a cloth. Make sure
all the
soap is wiped off and that your collar is thoroughly dry before
putting it back on, as skin irritations may result. Rubbing alcohol
may be
used to help destroy any bacteria that may be present, as well
as to assist in removing any soap residue.
Your collar may have
a removable hypo-allergenic sheepskin liner. This liner may
be cleaned in warm water and mild soap. But make
sure it is completely dry before replacing it in your collar.
The liner
need not be cleaned everyday; daily washing of your neck and
chest will help keep the liner in good condition.
Special Instructions
It is very important to consult your doctor for specific instructions
regarding bathing, eating, and other daily activities during
your treatment.
Wearing Your Cervical Thoracic Collar
Comfort
while wearing your brace is just as important as proper wearing of
the device. Below are helpful hints to assist you with
your cervical thoracic collar
Chin-piece
Your chin should rest comfortably on
the lined chin-piece, while your head remains immobilized by the
piece behind your head.
Head-strap
The Minerva collar has head straps to provide additional support
and to keep your head immobilized throughout your treatment.
The SOMI collar has an optional head-strap, to be used for extra
support
should you need to remove the chin-support for any reason.
Fitting
Your brace should fit snugly, but you should still be able
to breathe normally. The Velcro straps may be tightened or
loosened
to ensure
a comfortable and proper fit.
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