Orthotics - Collars

Introduction

This leaflet is for people who have been provided with a collar by the Orthotics service. It will explain how to care for the collar and other important information about the Orthotics service.

We hope you find this information useful.

If you require further information or you are unable to attend an appointment, please telephone the Orthotics department where the appointment has been made as soon as possible:

Bury, Rochdale or Oldham: 0161 778 2670
Email: nca.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

Salford: 0161 206 4912
Email: salford.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

For further information about our service, please visit:

www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/orthotics

Our sites are open for collection and dropping off devices:

Bury: Tuesdays only
Rochdale: Thursdays only
Oldham: Mondays only
Salford: Monday - Friday

What does the collar do?

You have been supplied with a collar which is designed to support your neck and head. The Orthotist has prescribed this device for your specific problem, so if you experience any changes in your medical condition or if you feel that the collar provides inadequate control you must let the Orthotics department know immediately.

What am I entitled to?

You are entitled to one collar. A second item will only be provided if:

• It is deemed to be clinically essential and you are unable to function without it
• Your original collar is beyond repair

Theft, loss or damage to your collar

If your collar is stolen you will need to obtain a crime number from the police before we are able to order you a replacement.

If your collar is lost or damaged (either accidentally or maliciously) you will be asked to pay for its replacement. The average cost of replacement of a collar is £15.

How should I wear the collar?

• The collar should be applied as instructed and following the manufacturer's instructions
• Unless instructed otherwise, the collar should not be removed or adjusted
• If you feel that you may need to wear the collar whilst driving, you should contact your insurance company to check that the use of the collar does not invalidate your insurance. It is our recommendation however that a collar should not be worn whilst driving

How should I care for my collar?

The collar can be cleaned in warm soapy water, rinsed in clean warm water and then pressed in a towel before leaving to drip dry. You may find it easier to obtain one or two lengths of Tubigrip or similar material and use these as covers to the collar. These can then be machine washed for hygiene avoiding the need to wash the whole collar. Tubigrip can be bought from a chemist.

What problems should I be aware of?

If you notice any of the following, please contact the Orthotics department as soon as possible on the telephone number at the top of this leaflet

• Increased pain or discomfort
• Sores or blisters on the skin
• Irritation or rubbing
• Any damage to the collar
• In the event of you experiencing numbness or dizziness contact your consultant or the nearest A&E dept immediately

Further appointments

If you feel your condition has not improved, has worsened or you are experiencing problems with the collar you can ask to see the orthotist by telephoning the orthotics department where you had your original appointment.
You will not be given a further appointment. However, if you feel your condition has not improved, has worsened or you are experiencing problems with the collar you can see the orthotist by telephoning the orthotics department where you had your original appointment.