Neck braces are an adjunctive treatment tool for cervical spondylosis. Commonly used neck braces are categorized into soft neck braces, inflatable neck braces, and hard neck braces. There are different ways to wear them.
The most commonly used is the hard neck brace, the method of use is to choose the right size of neck brace, put the back piece of the neck brace to the back of the neck, so that the neck brace is in the center. The patient’s jaw is then placed securely in the groove of the front piece of the neck brace. The front piece of the neck brace presses against the back piece to ensure effective immobilization and comfort. The neck brace is adjusted from both sides by means of Velcro straps to tighten the neck brace without interfering with the patient’s normal breathing.
Inflatable neck braces are made of soft plastic and are inflated and worn around the neck. The other type is made of rubber, like a spring, and is worn around the neck and then inflated. The amount of inflation depends on the size of each person’s neck, their use and their condition.
Soft neck braces are made of felt or similar material. The front part of the neck brace is short, the size of the felt cushion is suitable for the shape of the jaw, “supporting” the cheeks, so that the head-chin-neck is in a mildly flexed position, and the back part is high, up to the occiput, and serves as a reminder to prevent the head from being tilted back to prevent the neck from being over-extended when it is touched.
Wearing it requires skin cleaning of the neck and replacement of the liner 1 to 2 times a day. The neck brace can be worn during the day and removed at rest. Before stopping the use of neck brace, it is necessary to go to the hospital for review before deciding the time to stop using it. It is recommended that patients wear the neck brace properly under the guidance of a medical professional.