Is a Whiplash Cervical Collar Needed?
After a car accident, if paramedics detect a neck injury, they will give the patient a cervical collar to immobilize the neck for transportation to the emergency room. Once there, a further exam will take place. A cervical collar is necessary in this situation to achieve the best outcome, but a different type of collar can also be given to a patient after the further exam. That is called a soft cervical collar. Dr Chris Wellwood, our Spokane accident chiropractor looks at a couple of studies to see of a whiplash cervical collar is needed or not.
Whiplash Cervical Collar – To Wear or Not to Wear
The soft cervical collar allows for minimal movement while supporting the head and neck. It relieves cervical tissues from extra stress while healing. In 2021, a study was done including a few over 2000 patients. These patients went to the emergency room within 48 hours of a collision. The study found that 85% were given a soft cervical collar, and those who received the collar were four times more likely to return to the emergency room within three months. This research suggests that the soft cervical collar is a risk factor for a return visit to the emergency room after the initial visit.
Another 2021 study was done where researchers looked at different methods for treating whiplash patients during their first visit to the emergency room. A group of over 5000 patients used spinal manipulation techniques which led to a reduction in soft cervical collar use, as well as less x-rays and orthopedic referrals. The spinal manipulation approach was more effective for detecting grade a whiplash cases.
So a Whiplash Cervical Collar Perhaps Not the Best Thing After All
All of the studies find that immobilization with a soft cervical collar after an emergency room visit could slow the recovery process. Patients should instead carry out their normal activities as long as pain is not felt, and utilize manual therapies which can be done at a chiropractor‘s office.
If you have suffered in an auto accident, look no further than Natural Health Center. We have plenty of ways to help patients through their injuries including chiropractic care, physical therapy amongst other services.
Schedule a time to come in and we can help you.