Orthopedic collars, splints, pillows

Pain and discomfort in the cervical spine are phenomena that are familiar to most of us. The causes of such unpleasant symptoms can be a variety of injuries, hypothermia, muscle strain, as well as diseases such as osteochondrosis and osteoarthritis.

According to statistics, by the age of thirty, every second inhabitant of our planet complains of some kind of discomfort in the cervical spine. At risk, first of all, are those who spend a lot of time in a sitting position: office workers, schoolchildren and students, motorists, people who often have to travel by bus or plane.

To reduce discomfort, various devices are used. These can be orthopedic collars (tires) and special orthopedic pillows.

How does an orthopedic collar work?

Many people who have experienced discomfort in the neck are interested in how an orthopedic collar works. This device is also known as the Shants collar (or splint). Its main purpose is to gently fix and stabilize the cervical spine. It helps to provide soft support to the head, as well as partially unload the musculoskeletal apparatus of the cervical spine.

In other words, the Shants collar makes it possible to fix the cervical spine in the required position, and also limits the excessive mobility of the cervical vertebrae. The result is a soft correction of the position of the neck, a slight extension and a weak massage effect.

Indications and contraindications for use

The main indication for the use of a splint collar is a variety of diseases of the cervical spine. In addition, this device can assist in the prevention of a wide range of diseases of the cervical-collar zone, which primarily affect office workers who spend a lot of time at the computer. The collar makes it possible to remove the load from the muscular frame of the neck and at the same time supports the head. In addition, it has a very gentle neck massage effect and at the same time helps to ensure the immobilization of the neck during the recovery process after an injury.

All of the above and determines the main indications for the use of an orthopedic collar. So, he has proven himself well in osteochondrosis, with moderate injuries of the cervical spine. Its use is recommended for myositis – in other words, inflammation of the muscles of various etiologies. Pediatricians recommend wearing the Shants collar to newborns if they have been diagnosed with symptoms of muscular torticollis. Also, this device helps to recover from injuries and surgical interventions, helps with posture disorders, spinal cord compression and neurological pain.

At the same time, despite the undoubted effectiveness of the orthopedic collar, there are a number of diseases in which its use is categorically not recommended. So, the use of the Shants collar should be abandoned in the presence of any dermatological diseases in the shoulders and neck. In addition, it is not suitable for patients with too severe spinal injury and with significant spinal instability in the cervical region. In this case, other, much more difficult to use, means will be needed.

Types and properties of the Shants collar

Orthopedic collars have several varieties, which differ mainly in the material of manufacture. There are no functional differences between them. However, in order to choose the right Shants collar, it is imperative to consult a doctor.

soft tire

In order to provide a slight extension of the cervical vertebrae and suppress the unpleasant symptoms that occur during sedentary work, orthopedists recommend using a therapeutic soft collar (tire). It is made, as a rule, from special medical foam rubber or other material, characterized by increased elasticity and porosity.

Externally, such a collar is a flexible strip that has a special anatomical recess designed for the chin, as well as Velcro, with which you can securely fix the position of the neck.

This orthopedic device limits the tilt of the head, and also prevents the development of cervical osteochondrosis. The mechanism of action of such a collar is that dosed pressure helps to unload the cervical spine, and also contributes to damper traction (traction).

Wearing such a splint is usually recommended for children, in particular in the case of torticollis in newborns. In addition, he has proven himself well as an aid in myositis, osteochondrosis, as well as in rehabilitation after injuries of the cervical spine.

inflatable collar

An inflatable collar is a frame that is made of a material that is highly dense, but at the same time flexible. An inflatable mechanism is located between the strips of the base material. Such devices are inflated using a special pear.

The purpose of such a collar is to gently stretch the spinal column and stimulate blood flow. At the same time, it allows you to fix the spine in the required state and slightly limits the mobility of the neck.

Semi-rigid and rigid collars

The main purpose of the semi-rigid and rigid fixation orthopedic collar is to support the head, as a result of which the load on the muscles and vertebrae of the cervical region is relieved.

A semi-rigid collar is usually made of polyurethane. The entire structure is covered in fabric and has a clasp at the back. The collar helps to keep the head in a certain position, and in addition, it has a warming effect, due to which it has a positive effect on problems of the musculoskeletal system. This device is used for diseases of the cervical spine, when it is extremely important to limit the mobility of the neck. For example, it is used for mild fractures or cracks of the cervical region, for dislocations, as well as during the rehabilitation period after undergoing surgical operations. It can be used both with a cotton lining, and simply on a naked body. It has several sizes, varying in neck circumference (from 30 to 46 centimeters), and the height varies from eight to twelve centimeters.

The main difference between a rigid collar and a semi-rigid collar is that when it is used, the motor activity of the cervical spine is almost completely limited, since it is made from a thermoplastic rigid material. It is modeled individually, directly on the patient’s body, after which it is fixed from behind. It is recommended for use during postoperative recovery during operations on the muscles of the neck, as well as for any spinal injuries in the cervical region.

The rigid collar design always includes submandibular and posterior calipers, which help to ensure severe immobilization. Rigid collars are used for fracture-dislocations, torticollis, as well as for severe instability of the vertebrae of the cervical spine, to eliminate the consequences of fractures of the cervical spine. A rigid collar is made of metal or solid types of plastic, due to which it securely fixes the spinal column in one position. At the same time, there are cases when prolonged wearing of a rigid collar led to ischemic problems, as well as to painful sensations in the chin and lower jaw area.

Orthopedic collar for children

Separately, it is worth mentioning the orthopedic collars designed for children. Doctors recommend wearing the Shants collar for children who need to temporarily limit the mobility of the cervical spine. The most common cause of this is a variety of neck injuries.

Children’s orthopedic collar is a strip, which, as a rule, is made of highly elastic polyurethane. Such a device wraps around and gently fixes the head and neck of the baby in exactly the position that is currently physiologically beneficial. At the same time, there is also a stretching of the muscles reduced by spasm, restriction of excessive mobility of the cervical region, blood circulation is stimulated and pressure on the nerve endings decreases.

The Shants collar helps to return the displaced cervical vertebrae to the correct position, eliminates concomitant pathologies, and helps to avoid accidental injuries of the cervical region. Its wearing is also recommended during the rehabilitation period after surgical interventions.

It should be noted that although an orthopedic collar helps to restore displaced cervical vertebrae to the correct position, wearing it should be combined with other methods of treatment. It can be massage, gymnastics, use of an orthopedic pillow.

Children’s orthopedic collars vary in size, which depends on the circumference and height of the child’s neck. The latter is measured from the middle of the clavicle to the angle of the lower jaw.

An orthopedic collar is put on the child in such a way that the baby’s chin is located in the recess located in the middle of the upper edge of the device. The design is fastened on the back of the neck with Velcro. Be sure to make sure that the collar fits snugly enough to the skin over the entire surface of the neck. At the same time, the chin and cheeks of the child should not “fall through” into the structure.

At the same time, it is also impossible to fasten the collar too tightly. This can lead to respiratory and circulatory disorders in the cervical spine.

Orthopedic collar for newborns

There is also another special category of orthopedic collars – Shants collars for newborns. These devices among young mothers are known as “collars”.

The Shants collar for newborns is a collar made of foam rubber with a height of 3,5 to 4,5 centimeters. Velcro is located at its ends, which help to regulate the volume of the tire.

Orthopedic collars for newborns are designed for use by children up to six months. Indications for wearing it are not only torticollis and problems with the cervical spine, but also hyperexcitability, some movement disorders, short neck syndrome, etc. Naturally, the doctor makes the final conclusion about the need to use this device in each case.

As a rule, the use of the Shants collar is assigned to the baby immediately after his birth. The duration of its use is a month, but other options are possible. The peculiarity of the Shants collar for newborns is that it should be worn constantly, removing it only while bathing the baby. Less commonly, doctors recommend wearing this design in the so-called “sessions” of 10-15 minutes a day.

Many young mothers share the erroneous belief that due to the use of this device, the child will later learn to hold his head. However, in reality this is not the case. An orthopedic splint for newborns does not interfere with the baby – it only restricts movements that can cause him pain. In addition, this device has a slight warming effect and a relaxing effect on the muscles, as a result of which the baby becomes calmer, hyperexcitability disappears.

Please note that an orthopedic collar for newborns is put on the baby in such a way that there is a free space approximately a finger thick between the neck and the structure. Its presence is usually checked on the posterior-lateral surface of the neck.

The main thing to remember for parents whose baby is recommended by a doctor to wear a Shants collar for newborns is the fact that the baby’s skin under the splint should always be clean and dry. Otherwise, irritation, redness and soreness may occur.

With prolonged use, the children’s orthopedic collar gets dirty. Therefore, it would be advisable to purchase two or more products at once, so that it would be possible to wash them alternately. Washing should be carried out very carefully, without using synthetic detergents. It is best to wash orthopedic collars for newborns by hand, using baby or laundry soap. Dry the tire should be straightened, away from heat sources. After the bandage dries, carefully inspect it – it should not have wrinkles that can irritate the delicate skin of the baby.

How to choose a Shants collar

To ensure that wearing a Shants collar does not cause severe discomfort, several important nuances should be taken into account when choosing.

First of all, remember that after the splint is put on, the mobility of the neck will be limited. Tilt your head back or tilt it forward will be impossible. Therefore, the collar is put on only in a position where the neck is straight and the head is straight.

Collar height is important. The lower part of the Shants collar in front should rest against the bones of the collarbone, and in the back it should be located right at the base of the neck. The upper edge of the accessory should support the jaw in front, and reach the base of the skull in the back.

A properly selected collar should not rub the neck, prevent swallowing and movements of the lower jaw, squeeze the neck or prevent the head from turning. One finger should fit freely between the skin and the inner surface of the bandage.

In the event that the collar is not chosen correctly, patients may complain of a number of unpleasant symptoms. It can be weakness, bouts of dizziness, fainting, nausea and vomiting, severe pain in the neck muscles and lower jaw. If any of these symptoms occur, the cervical collar should be removed and medical advice should be sought. The specialist will suggest using another modification of the structure or adjust the degree of its compression.

Feedback on the effectiveness of the Shants collar

The effectiveness of using the Shants collar is confirmed by numerous positive reviews from patients. People note that when using this accessory, painful sensations quickly pass, it is quite comfortable to wear it. Office workers are especially pleased with the use of the Shants collar – in particular, those who have to sit at the computer for a long time. Also, some note the positive effect of the collar during hypothermia.

There are, however, those who complain about the lack of any effect or discomfort caused by the use of the Shants splint. In particular, some claim that their headaches have intensified. The reason for this reaction is usually the wrong choice of collar or using it for too long.

How long to wear a Shants collar

Patients to whom the doctor has prescribed the use of the Shants collar are interested in the question of how long this device should be worn. Alas, there are no universal recommendations on this matter. The duration of use of the device in each case should be determined by the doctor.

Most often, for minor injuries and pains, adults are advised to use an orthopedic collar for about a quarter of an hour daily. Doctors usually advise people suffering from osteochondrosis to use the collar twice a day for an hour, for example, while reading or watching TV.

It should be borne in mind that, although you can sit and walk in the collar, you should never lie in it, because in this position, strong pressure on the fixed cervical region can lead to deformation of the vertebrae. In addition, it is strictly forbidden to wear an orthopedic collar all the time, as this is fraught with complete atrophy of the cervical muscles.

Doctors recommend combining the use of the Shants collar with physiotherapy exercises, massage, as well as using an orthopedic neck pillow.

Orthopedic neck pillow

Orthopedic pillow for the neck is another way to prevent pain and the development of diseases of the cervical spine. The main target audience of these accessories are office workers, travelers, drivers – in a word, those who, by the nature of their activities, are forced to be in a sitting position for a long time. This device will also benefit all patients suffering from osteochondrosis.

Types of cervical orthopedic pillows

To date, there are several varieties of cervical orthopedic pillows. They differ in their purpose, form factor, as well as the filler used by the manufacturer.

The most popular pillow-collar and pillow-roller. Let’s consider them in more detail.

A collar pillow is often referred to as a travel pillow. In shape, it resembles a horseshoe and was created specifically for those who spend a lot of time on trains, planes and buses. During a trip, even if the chair is quite comfortable, the neck muscles do not get the opportunity to relax due to being in a sitting position. It is this problem that the orthopedic “horseshoe” is designed to solve, which tightly wraps around the neck from behind and from the sides, fixing the person’s head in the most natural position. As a result, the load on muscle tissue is reduced, and a person has the opportunity to relax and even fall asleep in a sitting position. It is noteworthy that after sleeping with the use of such a pillow, there are no unpleasant sensations in the neck, so familiar to those who have had to doze off repeatedly in transport.

Orthopedic pillow-roller is a roller of variable thickness. It can also be used for sedentary work. In particular, this accessory is highly demanded by drivers, as it provides support for the head and neck, while not limiting their mobility and not blocking the view. In addition, people who spend a lot of time at the computer can use it.

There is also an orthopedic pillow called “double cushion”. It consists of two rollers of different heights and is designed for sleeping. Thanks to the unique form factor, you can sleep on such a pillow in different positions: on your back, using a high roller; on the side, using either a high or low roller, depending on how firm the mattress is; on the abdomen using a low roller.

Orthopedists claim that such pillows perfectly support the head and neck, helping to relax muscles and normalize sleep. It is noteworthy that such a pillow is placed only under the head and neck, while the person’s shoulders lie directly on the mattress, due to which there is no deformation of the spine.

An important role, however, is played not only by the form factor of the orthopedic pillow, but also by what filler the manufacturer used.

Fillers for orthopedic pillows

Modern orthopedic neck pillows are made using foam fillers. It can be polyurethane foam, natural latex, as well as materials with the so-called “memory effect”. A separate category are pillows in which buckwheat husk or polyester was used as a filler.

To determine which of these fillers is optimal, you should briefly talk about each of them. Polyurethane foam and natural latex are the most common materials for orthopedic pillows. Their indisputable advantage is the ability to almost instantly restore shape, as well as guarantee good support for the neck and head. At the same time, pillows using these materials are more expensive.

Polyester is a material that is more affordable. It is well ventilated and is able to restore its shape relatively quickly. It is on its basis that inexpensive pillows are usually produced for motorists and travelers.

Natural filler from buckwheat husks is also very expensive. Such pillows perfectly support the neck and head, while they do not heat up from the human body, are hypoallergenic and can guarantee a comfortable sleep. At the same time, some people complain that buckwheat is very hard, but over time you get used to such a pillow.

When choosing the height of an orthopedic pillow, you should first of all focus on your own comfort. Also, if you are choosing a pillow to sleep on, consider how firm your mattress is. The softer it is, the higher the pillow should be.