🧒 Pediatric Cervical Collars: Overview
1. Aspen® Pediatric Cervical Collar
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A rigid, two-piece design tailored specifically for infants and pediatric patients, with five distinct sizes (PD‑1 to PD‑5) covering age ranges from 1 month to 6 years
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Unique FlexTabs™ distribute pressure evenly to minimize hotspots and skin breakdown.
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Soft, breathable padding and optional occipital straps for head cradle support on larger sizes PD‑4 and PD‑5
2. Miami‑Jr Pediatric Collar
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A semi-rigid design that offers firm support with improved mobility compared to adult rigid collars.
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Often used when more flexibility is needed but still some immobilization is required
3. Soft Foam Pediatric Collars
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Made from high-density foam covered in hypoallergenic cotton stockinette; offers mild to moderate neck stabilization.
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Ideal for minor injuries, muscle strain recovery, or transitional support after rigid collar use
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Example: the EB‑KM collar features an open anatomical shape, wide Velcro straps, and breathable materials suitable for children aged ~1.5–4 or 4–10 years
✅ Soft vs. Rigid: When to Use What?
Type | Description | Typical Use Cases |
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Rigid | Plastic shells with foam liners | Fractures, post-op stabilization, moderate to severe injury |
Semi-rigid | Lightweight structured support | Moderate immobilization, selected neck injuries |
Soft foam | Gentle foam with soft cover | Minor sprains, recovery phase, comfort wear |
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Rigid collars (e.g., Aspen or Miami-Jr) restrict flexion, extension, and rotation more effectively—often essential following trauma or surgical intervention
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Soft collars provide proprioceptive feedback and gentle support, helpful when rigid immobilization isn't necessary or tolerated
👶 Sizing & Fit Basics
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Measure neck circumference around the Adams apple area.
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Collar height is based on the distance from chin to clavicle.
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Aspen PD models: PD‑1 for infants (1–18 mo, 11–29 lbs) up to PD‑5 for older toddlers (3–6 years, ≈27–54 lbs)
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Adjustable options like EB‑KM come in size 1 (neck 24–27 cm) and size 2 (27–31 cm) for age ranges ~1.5–10 years
⚠️ Safety Tips & Advice
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Always use a collar only if prescribed by a medical professional, ideally fitted by an orthotist after consultation with a neurosurgeon or pediatrician
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Monitor skin condition under the collar—check regularly for irritation or pressure points.
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Be alert to airway concerns: collars may limit coughing or vomiting clearance—especially in trauma or emergency care situations
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Use the minimal effective duration—shortest time needed to achieve immobilization or healing