Do neck braces help the neck?
Who hasn't seen someone wearing a neck brace?—those bulky, rigid collars that keep the head upright and prevent it from moving.
People usually use them after a car accident, a a sports injury or a fall, «whiplash,» or a soft-tissue injury around the neck. They look uncomfortable. But more and more of us are wondering if we really should wear them!
Many people believe that short-term use of a soft cervical collar can be beneficial during the initial acute phase of an injury. However, Continued use causes the neck muscles to weaken because the neck brace actually takes over the muscles' function.
Some studies have shown that wearing a cervical collar can actually prolong the recovery process.
So, how should a neck injury be treated?
- Come in for a checkup with your chiropractor! When your spine is functioning properly, your muscles and joint function are restored. The longer you wait, the longer it will take to recover.
- Try to keep your neck moving as normally as possible; that's what helps maintain muscle function.
- If you are in favor of using a cervical collar, limit its use to less than a week.
- Doing stretching exercises helps your neck muscles and joints.
- Continue with your normal daily routine and activities.
Whiplash injuries can also affect the normal curve of the neck. A chiropractic exam can determine the extent of the damage, while pain relievers and muscle relaxants may make you feel better temporarily, but they do not heal the injury to the ligaments, muscles, and tendons. A cervical collar CANNOT restore the neck's natural forward curve.
We explain it in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIh8_HPZvgI
If you know someone who wears one of these trendy accessories, suggest that they visit our clinic.
