If you feel you may need guidance with washing and dressing technique please discuss this with the occupational therapist on the ward prior to discharge. You will also need to be able to sit comfortably in the spinal brace, walk short distances and be able to walk up and down a flight of stairs (if you have them at home). If your child needed to wear their collar for 24 hours a day without removing it, after the collar is taken off the skin may be dry and itchy. Bathe the skin with warm water and soap, and apply a plain, non-perfumed moisturiser. If excessive sweating occurs, please remove the spinal brace and rest for short periods lying down – this is especially important if you have a wound from surgery.

Wearing a spinal brace will cause some weakness of the muscles around your spine, as the spinal brace will essentially be doing some of the work of these muscles. However, when you no longer require your spinal brace you will be advised to gradually stop using it and you will be provided with an exercise program to strengthen your muscles again. Applying your spinal brace

Method 2: Sitting (1 assistant required)

You may be expected to attend for follow-up X-rays to monitor the healing process. If this is the case then you will be provided with dates and times for these appointments by your physiotherapist. Please attend X-ray first and then to see the physiotherapist. Please allow good time for these appointments as occasionally there can be delays. When to stop wearing your spinal brace Remember – it’s important that your collar remains completely dry for continuous wear. Can I drive whilst wearing the collar?

Returning to work will depend very much upon the individual and the type of work you do. It is important that you ask your surgeon when it is safe to return to work. Lifting You will be provided with a spare cervical collar, unless you have been told otherwise by your consultant you should wear the cervical collar in the shower and change this to a dry one, once you have finished showering.

What is a cervical hard collar?

Your consultant should have explained the reason for having to wear your spinal brace. This leaflet will concentrate on providing you with the information on the physiotherapy input you can expect and instructions for your spinal brace. The reason why you require the collar will determine the length of time you require it for. Your consultants will make this decision.