Difference between revisions of "Soft Cervical Collar"
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− | + | {{OSCAR}} | |
+ | __NOTOC__ | ||
− | Many CPAP users (at least 1/3 of forum members including the writer) experience significant | + | =Soft Cervical Collars and Apnea= |
+ | ==Introduction== | ||
+ | This article provides guidance for the selection and use of a soft cervical collar (SCC) to prevent a common cause of positional apnea. Many CPAP users(at least 1/3 of forum members including the writer) experience significant | ||
clustered flow restrictions, hypopnea, and obstructive apnea that do not respond to pressure due | clustered flow restrictions, hypopnea, and obstructive apnea that do not respond to pressure due | ||
to misalignment and restriction of the airway caused by tucking the chin down toward the chest | to misalignment and restriction of the airway caused by tucking the chin down toward the chest | ||
Line 7: | Line 10: | ||
restriction or collapse during inspiration. It takes very little pressure to make this happen and the | restriction or collapse during inspiration. It takes very little pressure to make this happen and the | ||
negative pressure of the airway during inspiration increases the restriction. This has been | negative pressure of the airway during inspiration increases the restriction. This has been | ||
− | confirmed in at least one medical study | + | confirmed in at least one medical study <ref> Effect of Jaw and Head Position on Airway Resistance in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Choi JK, et al., Sleep and Breathing, 2000;4(4):163-168. |
− | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11894202 </ref> | + | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11894202 </ref>. To demonstrate this, sit relaxed in a chair and take a couple of deep breaths. Then let your chin |
− | |||
− | To demonstrate this, sit relaxed in a chair and take a couple of deep breaths. Then let your chin | ||
drop to your chest, take more deep breaths, and note the increased resistance. This is a common, | drop to your chest, take more deep breaths, and note the increased resistance. This is a common, | ||
− | perhaps the most common, form of what we call | + | perhaps the most common, form of what we call '''[[Optimizing_therapy#Positional_Apnea|Positional Apnea]]''' and, as previously mentioned, |
− | usually cannot be resolved by increased pressure. | + | usually cannot be resolved by increased pressure.<br> |
− | + | Flow restrictions caused by chin tucking can be eliminated by wearing a loose-fitting soft | |
− | |||
− | Flow restrictions caused by chin tucking can be eliminated by wearing a loose fitting soft | ||
cervical collar (SCC), or an alternative to be discussed below, to restrict neck flexion. Here are | cervical collar (SCC), or an alternative to be discussed below, to restrict neck flexion. Here are | ||
− | images of a typical SCC. | + | images of a typical SCC.<br> |
− | + | [[File:Cvs collar.jpg|Soft Cervical Collar]] | |
− | + | [[File:Extended collar.png|Extended Soft Cervical Collar]] <br> | |
− | |||
It consists of foam rubber with a cloth cover and a Velcro closure at the rear. The Velcro closure | It consists of foam rubber with a cloth cover and a Velcro closure at the rear. The Velcro closure | ||
allows several inches of adjustment to achieve the correct fit. They are available in a variety of | allows several inches of adjustment to achieve the correct fit. They are available in a variety of | ||
lengths and heights to suit individual needs. (The length and height in the example above would | lengths and heights to suit individual needs. (The length and height in the example above would | ||
− | + | not be appropriate for everyone.)<br> | |
− | Anti-snore pillows (collars) that are similar to | + | Anti-snore pillows (collars) that are similar to an SCC in the front but have just a strap around the |
back are an effective alternative for those who find a foam collar that completely surrounds the | back are an effective alternative for those who find a foam collar that completely surrounds the | ||
− | neck too warm or otherwise uncomfortable. | + | neck too warm or otherwise uncomfortable. They are much less available locally, however, and are usually more expensive.<br><br> |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | They are much less available locally, however, and are usually more expensive. | ||
− | |||
A small pillow set under the chin will also prevent tucking but is less effective than a collar and | A small pillow set under the chin will also prevent tucking but is less effective than a collar and | ||
− | will probably not stay in place. | + | will probably not stay in place.<br> Please see [[Optimizing_therapy#Positional_Apnea|the Optimizing_therapy Wiki]] for additional information on what is often referred to as "positional apnea". |
− | + | Some users have been able to discontinue use after a 'training' period where your body learns the correct alignment though this may take considerable time, months/years. | |
+ | |||
+ | Note: There is a formal study in progress on this regarding "cervical alignment" but very few doctors or clinics, including sleep centers and sleep doctors will be familiar with this. | ||
− | SCC can be purchased at most pharmacies and big box stores for around $20 but the selection of | + | ==Where and How to Find Them== |
+ | In the United States, an SCC can be purchased at most pharmacies and big box stores for around $20 but the selection of | ||
sizes will be limited. The best selection of sizes and prices (as low as $10) will be found at | sizes will be limited. The best selection of sizes and prices (as low as $10) will be found at | ||
− | internet vendors such as Amazon and eBay. | + | internet vendors such as Amazon and eBay.<br> |
A large number of choices of SCC can be found by entering “soft cervical collar” or “soft foam collar” in a | A large number of choices of SCC can be found by entering “soft cervical collar” or “soft foam collar” in a | ||
− | search engine. A similar search at the site of | + | search engine. A similar search at the site of vendor such as Amazon or eBay will also bring up many choices with fewer extraneous hits.<br><br> |
− | + | Anti-snore collars may be available at some big box stores but the best source is internet vendors | |
− | Anti-snore collars may be available at some big box stores but the best source is internet vendors | ||
− | |||
It is difficult to find a good selection by entering “anti snore collar” in a search engine or even at | It is difficult to find a good selection by entering “anti snore collar” in a search engine or even at | ||
the site of an internet vendor. It is more successful to search for specific brands/models such as | the site of an internet vendor. It is more successful to search for specific brands/models such as | ||
Dr. Dakota Anti Snore Pillow Cushion, or Eliminator Series Sleep Aid Cushion. The Caldera | Dr. Dakota Anti Snore Pillow Cushion, or Eliminator Series Sleep Aid Cushion. The Caldera | ||
Releaf Neck Rest, which more closely resembles an SCC has also been recommended by some | Releaf Neck Rest, which more closely resembles an SCC has also been recommended by some | ||
− | forum members. | + | forum members.<br> |
− | + | [[File:Snore-collar.jpg|Anti-Snore Collar]] | |
− | |||
+ | ==Fit and Use== | ||
Proper fit is very important. The SCC needs to support the jaw and chin, without impinging on | Proper fit is very important. The SCC needs to support the jaw and chin, without impinging on | ||
the throat or soft tissue between the chin and throat or immobilizing neck movement more than is | the throat or soft tissue between the chin and throat or immobilizing neck movement more than is | ||
required to prevent the chin from tucking to the chest. Both height and circumference (length) | required to prevent the chin from tucking to the chest. Both height and circumference (length) | ||
are important. With respect to circumference, too tight a fit will be uncomfortable and may have | are important. With respect to circumference, too tight a fit will be uncomfortable and may have | ||
− | adverse consequences and too loose a fit will not prevent chin tucking. | + | adverse consequences and too loose a fit will not prevent chin tucking.<br><br> |
− | |||
The length of the collar should be a couple of inches more than your neck size as determined | The length of the collar should be a couple of inches more than your neck size as determined | ||
using a cloth measuring tape. The SCC package should give the length or the range in neck sizes | using a cloth measuring tape. The SCC package should give the length or the range in neck sizes | ||
− | for which the collar is designed. '''Keep in mind that the size stated is for the intended use of | + | for which the collar is designed. |
− | the collar which is a tight fit to immobilize the neck of someone who has had an injury. For | + | '''Keep in mind that the size stated is for the intended use of the collar which is a tight fit to immobilize the neck of someone who has had an injury. For our purpose the collar must be a looser fit. Therefore, a collar longer than the measured neck circumference should be selected.''' |
− | our purpose the collar must be a looser fit. Therefore, a collar longer than the measured | + | Many sold by internet vendors such as Amazon are |
− | neck circumference should be selected.''' Many sold by internet vendors such as Amazon are | + | described just as small, medium, and large. Often there will be a sizing chart stating the range of neck sizes for each category. Select the size for which your neck size falls near the middle of the |
− | described just as small medium, and large. Often there will be a sizing chart stating the range of | ||
− | neck sizes for each category. Select the size for which your neck size falls near the middle of the | ||
range. Precision is not important because most have a Velcro strap at the back and can be | range. Precision is not important because most have a Velcro strap at the back and can be | ||
− | adjusted an inch or two beyond the stated range. | + | adjusted an inch or two beyond the stated range.<br><br> |
− | |||
With respect to height, a collar that is too short may permit enough chin tucking to compromise | With respect to height, a collar that is too short may permit enough chin tucking to compromise | ||
the airway whereas one that is too tall will extend the neck up and back which will be | the airway whereas one that is too tall will extend the neck up and back which will be | ||
− | uncomfortable. Collars are available in heights ranging from 2” to 5”. Choose a collar with a | + | uncomfortable. Collars are available in heights ranging from 50 to 75mm (2” to 5”). Choose a collar with a |
height close to the distance from the bottom of the chin to where the point where the neck meets | height close to the distance from the bottom of the chin to where the point where the neck meets | ||
− | the chest. | + | the chest.<br><br> |
− | + | Internet vendors offer the best selection of heights. 3M markets an SCC called the Futuro that has | |
− | Internet vendors offer the best selection of heights. 3M markets | ||
a height adjustment tab. We have no reports on how well it works but 3M products are usually of | a height adjustment tab. We have no reports on how well it works but 3M products are usually of | ||
− | good quality. It is available at most chain pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens. | + | good quality. It is available at most chain pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens.<br><br> |
− | + | Adjust the collar so it is just tight enough to prevent the chin from tucking behind it, | |
− | Adjust the collar so it is just tight enough to prevent the chin from tucking behind it, but no | + | '''but no tighter''' |
− | + | , so that it feels loose and can easily be moved around on the neck. It should be possible | |
to easily insert one or two fingers between the neck and collar. It is important that the fit not only | to easily insert one or two fingers between the neck and collar. It is important that the fit not only | ||
− | be loose but that the collar only be worn while sleeping. Constant prolonged use of a cervical | + | be loose but that the collar only be worn while sleeping. |
− | collar, especially if tight, can result in damage to nerves and tendons and muscle atrophy. | + | '''Constant prolonged use''' of a cervical collar, especially if tight, can result in damage to nerves and tendons and muscle atrophy.<br><br> |
− | |||
We feel comfortable recommending the use of the SCC as described above because it is not worn | We feel comfortable recommending the use of the SCC as described above because it is not worn | ||
tight as it would be for its intended use, to stabilize the neck following injury, and is only worn | tight as it would be for its intended use, to stabilize the neck following injury, and is only worn | ||
while sleeping and not constantly. Evidence that there are no adverse side effects from long term | while sleeping and not constantly. Evidence that there are no adverse side effects from long term | ||
use of a loose fitting SCC worn only while sleeping is, however, anecdotal from the experience | use of a loose fitting SCC worn only while sleeping is, however, anecdotal from the experience | ||
− | of forum members. We have no solid data with respect to safety. | + | of forum members. We have no solid data with respect to safety.<br><br> |
− | |||
Most of the data demonstrating the successful use of SCC for treating "positional apnea" is | Most of the data demonstrating the successful use of SCC for treating "positional apnea" is | ||
strictly anecdotal. Although most doctors, sleep centers, and therapists are not aware of this | strictly anecdotal. Although most doctors, sleep centers, and therapists are not aware of this | ||
application, it has not escaped the attention of sleep medicine researchers. We are aware of one | application, it has not escaped the attention of sleep medicine researchers. We are aware of one | ||
− | pending study <ref> Evaluation of Treatment Effect of Cervical Collar in Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Florim Delijaj, Uppsala University. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03754270 </ref> | + | pending study <ref> Evaluation of Treatment Effect of Cervical Collar in Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Florim Delijaj, Uppsala University. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03754270 </ref> and three that have been completed. In one completed study five subjects with |
severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that was not resolved with CPAP alone (mean AHI 21.2 | severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that was not resolved with CPAP alone (mean AHI 21.2 | ||
with CAP) had a reduction in mean AHI to 0.8 with combined CPAP and cervical collar | with CAP) had a reduction in mean AHI to 0.8 with combined CPAP and cervical collar | ||
treatment <ref>Efficacy of the Addition of a Cervical Collar in the Treatment of Persistent Obstructive Apneas Despite Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, Arnaud Prigent, et al., 2017 Dec 15; 13(12): 1473–1476. | treatment <ref>Efficacy of the Addition of a Cervical Collar in the Treatment of Persistent Obstructive Apneas Despite Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, Arnaud Prigent, et al., 2017 Dec 15; 13(12): 1473–1476. | ||
− | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5695995/</ref> . In another | + | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5695995/</ref> . In another study a significant reduction in AHI was seen in patients with severe OSA with |
− | + | combined cervical collar and MAD therapy as compared to MAD therapy alone. <ref>Reduced Apnea-Hypopnea Index in Patients with Severe Sleep Apnea Syndrome as Determined by Cervical Collar and Mandibular Advancement Device Combination Therapy, Delijaj et al., Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy, 2016, 5:5 | |
https://www.longdom.org/open-access/redu...000252.pdf</ref> In a third study | https://www.longdom.org/open-access/redu...000252.pdf</ref> In a third study | ||
only one of 20 subjects with severe OSA experienced a significant (67%) decrease in AHI | only one of 20 subjects with severe OSA experienced a significant (67%) decrease in AHI | ||
− | associated with | + | associated with use of the collar. The authors concluded “a soft cervical collar had no effect on |
− | https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/4...08/4988596</ref> | + | pharyngeal patency in patients with OSA”. <ref>Soft Cervical Collar in Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a Pilot Study, P Bordier, et al., Sleep, Volume 41, Issue suppl_1, April 2018 |
+ | https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/4...08/4988596</ref> <br> | ||
− | == | + | ==OSCAR Charts== |
+ | The following charts are provided by Apnea Board members to illustrate their personal success in using a soft cervical collar. It should be noted that the use of a soft collar may be advantageous for any type of machine such as CPAP, Bilevel or even advanced machines like the Adaptive Servo Ventilator (ASV). No matter how the pressure delivery, it cannot benefit the patient if the airway is obstructed by positional apnea. These charts are intended to show before and after examples of the benefits. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Without Collar=== | ||
+ | <br>[[File:Severe Positional Apnea.png|500px]] [[File:Severe Positional Apnea FL Closeup.png|500px]] | ||
+ | [[File:Moderate Clustering Charts.jpg|500px]] | ||
+ | <br> <br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===With Collar=== | ||
+ | <br>[[File:Normal w C Collar.png|500px]] [[File:Normal w C Collar closeup.png|500px]]<br><br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===ASV Without Collar=== | ||
+ | <br> | ||
+ | [[File:ASV without Collar 1.png|500px]] [[File:ASV without Collar 2.png|500px]]<br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===ASV With Collar=== | ||
+ | [[File:ASV with Collar 1.png|500px]] [[File:ASV with Collar 2.png|500px]]<br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ==Reviews== | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Collars=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Coreflex-Ultra-Cervical-Collar?pid=355222#pid355222 Coreflex Ultra Cervical Collar]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Caldera-Releaf-Neck-Rest Caldera Releaf Neck Rest]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Carex-Cervical-Collar Carex Soft Cervical Collar]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Review-Futura-Sleep-Collar?pid=395728#pid395728 Futura Sleep Collar]<br. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Chinstraps=== | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-PAPcap-by-Pur-Sleep PAP Cap by Pur-Sleep]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Ultimate-chin-strap Ultimate Chin Strap]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Respironics-Premium-Chin-Strap-III Respironics Premium Chin Strap III]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Avalon-Aire-Super-Delux-Chin-Strap Avalon Aire Super Deluxe Chin Strap]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Carefusion-ruby-chin-strap Carefusion Ruby Chin Strap]<br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Pillows=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Avana-Mattress-Elevator-Under-Bed-7-Inch-Incline-Foam-Support-5-star Avana Mattress Elevator Under-Bed Incline Foam Support]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Buckwheat-Pillow-VS-My-Pillow Buckewheat Pillow vs My Pillow]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Wedge-Pillow-Body-Pillow Wedge Pillow Body Pillow]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-my-pillow My Pillow]<br> | ||
+ | [http://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread-Product-Review-Cpap-Bed-pillows CPAP Bed Pillows]<br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==DISCLAIMER & LEGAL NOTICE== | ||
BY USING A SOFT CERVICAL COLLAR OR OTHER MEANS TO PREVENT CHIN | BY USING A SOFT CERVICAL COLLAR OR OTHER MEANS TO PREVENT CHIN | ||
TUCKING AS DESCRIBED IN THIS DOCUMENT, YOU UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE | TUCKING AS DESCRIBED IN THIS DOCUMENT, YOU UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE | ||
Line 126: | Line 157: | ||
INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. | INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. | ||
− | + | ==References== | |
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | <!-- PLEASE NOTE: MAKE YOUR EDITS ABOVE THIS TEXT --> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | [[Category:Help]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Editing]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Medical terms]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Conditions]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Diagnosis]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Treatment]] |
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Soft Cervical Collars and Apnea
Introduction
This article provides guidance for the selection and use of a soft cervical collar (SCC) to prevent a common cause of positional apnea. Many CPAP users(at least 1/3 of forum members including the writer) experience significant
clustered flow restrictions, hypopnea, and obstructive apnea that do not respond to pressure due
to misalignment and restriction of the airway caused by tucking the chin down toward the chest
(neck flexion). With chin tucking the soft tissues under the jaw are pressed upward causing a
restriction or collapse during inspiration. It takes very little pressure to make this happen and the
negative pressure of the airway during inspiration increases the restriction. This has been
confirmed in at least one medical study [1]. To demonstrate this, sit relaxed in a chair and take a couple of deep breaths. Then let your chin
drop to your chest, take more deep breaths, and note the increased resistance. This is a common,
perhaps the most common, form of what we call Positional Apnea and, as previously mentioned,
usually cannot be resolved by increased pressure.
Flow restrictions caused by chin tucking can be eliminated by wearing a loose-fitting soft
cervical collar (SCC), or an alternative to be discussed below, to restrict neck flexion. Here are
images of a typical SCC.
It consists of foam rubber with a cloth cover and a Velcro closure at the rear. The Velcro closure
allows several inches of adjustment to achieve the correct fit. They are available in a variety of
lengths and heights to suit individual needs. (The length and height in the example above would
not be appropriate for everyone.)
Anti-snore pillows (collars) that are similar to an SCC in the front but have just a strap around the
back are an effective alternative for those who find a foam collar that completely surrounds the
neck too warm or otherwise uncomfortable. They are much less available locally, however, and are usually more expensive.
A small pillow set under the chin will also prevent tucking but is less effective than a collar and
will probably not stay in place.
Please see the Optimizing_therapy Wiki for additional information on what is often referred to as "positional apnea".
Some users have been able to discontinue use after a 'training' period where your body learns the correct alignment though this may take considerable time, months/years.
Note: There is a formal study in progress on this regarding "cervical alignment" but very few doctors or clinics, including sleep centers and sleep doctors will be familiar with this.
Where and How to Find Them
In the United States, an SCC can be purchased at most pharmacies and big box stores for around $20 but the selection of
sizes will be limited. The best selection of sizes and prices (as low as $10) will be found at
internet vendors such as Amazon and eBay.
A large number of choices of SCC can be found by entering “soft cervical collar” or “soft foam collar” in a
search engine. A similar search at the site of vendor such as Amazon or eBay will also bring up many choices with fewer extraneous hits.
Anti-snore collars may be available at some big box stores but the best source is internet vendors
It is difficult to find a good selection by entering “anti snore collar” in a search engine or even at
the site of an internet vendor. It is more successful to search for specific brands/models such as
Dr. Dakota Anti Snore Pillow Cushion, or Eliminator Series Sleep Aid Cushion. The Caldera
Releaf Neck Rest, which more closely resembles an SCC has also been recommended by some
forum members.
Fit and Use
Proper fit is very important. The SCC needs to support the jaw and chin, without impinging on
the throat or soft tissue between the chin and throat or immobilizing neck movement more than is
required to prevent the chin from tucking to the chest. Both height and circumference (length)
are important. With respect to circumference, too tight a fit will be uncomfortable and may have
adverse consequences and too loose a fit will not prevent chin tucking.
The length of the collar should be a couple of inches more than your neck size as determined
using a cloth measuring tape. The SCC package should give the length or the range in neck sizes
for which the collar is designed.
Keep in mind that the size stated is for the intended use of the collar which is a tight fit to immobilize the neck of someone who has had an injury. For our purpose the collar must be a looser fit. Therefore, a collar longer than the measured neck circumference should be selected.
Many sold by internet vendors such as Amazon are
described just as small, medium, and large. Often there will be a sizing chart stating the range of neck sizes for each category. Select the size for which your neck size falls near the middle of the
range. Precision is not important because most have a Velcro strap at the back and can be
adjusted an inch or two beyond the stated range.
With respect to height, a collar that is too short may permit enough chin tucking to compromise
the airway whereas one that is too tall will extend the neck up and back which will be
uncomfortable. Collars are available in heights ranging from 50 to 75mm (2” to 5”). Choose a collar with a
height close to the distance from the bottom of the chin to where the point where the neck meets
the chest.
Internet vendors offer the best selection of heights. 3M markets an SCC called the Futuro that has
a height adjustment tab. We have no reports on how well it works but 3M products are usually of
good quality. It is available at most chain pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens.
Adjust the collar so it is just tight enough to prevent the chin from tucking behind it,
but no tighter
, so that it feels loose and can easily be moved around on the neck. It should be possible
to easily insert one or two fingers between the neck and collar. It is important that the fit not only
be loose but that the collar only be worn while sleeping.
Constant prolonged use of a cervical collar, especially if tight, can result in damage to nerves and tendons and muscle atrophy.
We feel comfortable recommending the use of the SCC as described above because it is not worn
tight as it would be for its intended use, to stabilize the neck following injury, and is only worn
while sleeping and not constantly. Evidence that there are no adverse side effects from long term
use of a loose fitting SCC worn only while sleeping is, however, anecdotal from the experience
of forum members. We have no solid data with respect to safety.
Most of the data demonstrating the successful use of SCC for treating "positional apnea" is
strictly anecdotal. Although most doctors, sleep centers, and therapists are not aware of this
application, it has not escaped the attention of sleep medicine researchers. We are aware of one
pending study [2] and three that have been completed. In one completed study five subjects with
severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that was not resolved with CPAP alone (mean AHI 21.2
with CAP) had a reduction in mean AHI to 0.8 with combined CPAP and cervical collar
treatment [3] . In another study a significant reduction in AHI was seen in patients with severe OSA with
combined cervical collar and MAD therapy as compared to MAD therapy alone. [4] In a third study
only one of 20 subjects with severe OSA experienced a significant (67%) decrease in AHI
associated with use of the collar. The authors concluded “a soft cervical collar had no effect on
pharyngeal patency in patients with OSA”. [5]
OSCAR Charts
The following charts are provided by Apnea Board members to illustrate their personal success in using a soft cervical collar. It should be noted that the use of a soft collar may be advantageous for any type of machine such as CPAP, Bilevel or even advanced machines like the Adaptive Servo Ventilator (ASV). No matter how the pressure delivery, it cannot benefit the patient if the airway is obstructed by positional apnea. These charts are intended to show before and after examples of the benefits.
Without Collar
With Collar
ASV Without Collar
ASV With Collar
Reviews
Collars
Coreflex Ultra Cervical Collar
Caldera Releaf Neck Rest
Carex Soft Cervical Collar
Futura Sleep Collar<br.
Chinstraps
PAP Cap by Pur-Sleep
Ultimate Chin Strap
Respironics Premium Chin Strap III
Avalon Aire Super Deluxe Chin Strap
Carefusion Ruby Chin Strap
Pillows
Avana Mattress Elevator Under-Bed Incline Foam Support
Buckewheat Pillow vs My Pillow
Wedge Pillow Body Pillow
My Pillow
CPAP Bed Pillows
DISCLAIMER & LEGAL NOTICE
BY USING A SOFT CERVICAL COLLAR OR OTHER MEANS TO PREVENT CHIN TUCKING AS DESCRIBED IN THIS DOCUMENT, YOU UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE PERSONALLY ASSUMING ALL ASSOCIATED RISK AND WILL NOT HOLD APNEA BOARD, ITS MEMBERS, OWNERS, ADMINISTRATORS AND/OR MODERATORS LIABLE FOR ANY PROBLEMS, DAMAGES, PHYSICAL HARM, (INCLUDING DEATH), MENTAL HARM OR ANY OTHER HARM THAT MAY COME TO YOU, YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS, CO-WORKERS OR ANY OTHER PERSONS WHO MAY RECEIVE THIS INFORMATION FROM YOU. YOU MAY NOT USE, COPY OR DOWNLOAD THIS DOCUMENT UNLESS YOU HAVE A LEGAL RIGHT TO DO SO UNDER ALL APPLICABLE U.S. LAWS. INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS WEB PAGE, APNEA BOARD FORUMS AND ON THE APNEABOARD.COM WEB SITE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR ANY MEDICAL CONDITION, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA.
References
- ↑ Effect of Jaw and Head Position on Airway Resistance in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Choi JK, et al., Sleep and Breathing, 2000;4(4):163-168. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11894202
- ↑ Evaluation of Treatment Effect of Cervical Collar in Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Florim Delijaj, Uppsala University. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03754270
- ↑ Efficacy of the Addition of a Cervical Collar in the Treatment of Persistent Obstructive Apneas Despite Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, Arnaud Prigent, et al., 2017 Dec 15; 13(12): 1473–1476. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5695995/
- ↑ Reduced Apnea-Hypopnea Index in Patients with Severe Sleep Apnea Syndrome as Determined by Cervical Collar and Mandibular Advancement Device Combination Therapy, Delijaj et al., Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy, 2016, 5:5 https://www.longdom.org/open-access/redu...000252.pdf
- ↑ Soft Cervical Collar in Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a Pilot Study, P Bordier, et al., Sleep, Volume 41, Issue suppl_1, April 2018 https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/4...08/4988596
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