Definition of C-Collar

A c-collar is a neck brace that immobilizes the seven vertebrae of the cervical spine. These include the first two vertebrae, the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), which support the skull and allow the head to pivot on the neck, in addition to C3-C5, which facilitate head-neck movements.

Uses of a C-Collar

A c-collar is most often used in the event of a traumatic accident or injury. Emergency medical teams usually stabilize a patient’s neck with the brace, while supporting the rest of the spine with a body board. This is to prevent further damage to the spinal cord while a diagnosis is made and treatment is administered.

There are also instances when a c-collar is used for healing and therapeutic purposes. If a patient is experiencing neck pain due to degenerative intervertebral discs, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, or any other anatomical abnormality, a brace may provide temporary relief if worn for short periods of time. Stabilization with a c-collar may also be necessary after cervical spinal fusion surgery. A brace helps keep the neck immobile so that the hardware and bone graft do not shift during osteogenesis, the process of new bone growth.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

Wearing a c-collar after cervical spinal fusion can add to the discomfort you may experience after such a highly invasive surgery. If you want to explore alternative treatment options that do not require such an involved and lengthy recuperative period, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute. We specialize in minimally invasive, outpatient procedures that have helped tens of thousands of people rediscover their lives without back and neck pain. We also offer a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan to find out if you could be a candidate for one of our state-of-the-art endoscopic procedures.